Workshops Explain Art Grants Program

Representatives from the city of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department will present free workshops this month and next to help artists and representatives from arts organizations complete applications for the 1997-98 Cultural Grants Program.

The workshops, held throughout the Valley, will include question-and-answer sessions and a discussion of changes in the grants program. They will be led by Roella Hsieh Louie, director of grants and public cultural planning.

In the next fiscal year, only established artists involved in visual arts and photography may apply for the program, which will award only 12 grants. Less established artists, also called artists in the community, and those involved with music, media and dance may apply in a new program of regional arts grants beginning in May.

Applying “is a competitive process,” said Louie. “I would advise getting to an early workshop and taking advantage of other workshops.” Future seminars, she added, will include help in completing the application.

Last year, the Cultural Affairs Department awarded 171 grants to artists and arts organizations, a total of $2.7 million, Louie said.

The grants guidelines and application forms are available at city branch libraries, City Council district field offices and community arts centers. The application deadline is Sept. 3.

Workshops, which begin at 6 p.m., will be held at the following locations:

* Thursday at the office of Councilwoman Laura Chick, 19040 Vanowen St., Reseda.

* July 16 at the Granada Hills Library, 10640 Petit Ave.

* July 18 at the North Weddington Center, 10844 Acama St., North Hollywood.

* July 22 at the Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Senior Center, 14201 Huston St., Sherman Oaks.

* July 25 at the field office of Councilman Richard Alarcon, 8128 Sunland Blvd., Sun Valley.

* Aug. 8 at the Tujunga Community Auditorium, 7747 Foothill Blvd.

For more information, call (213) 620-8635.