Alfred University Institute for Electronic Arts awarded $25,000 grant from NYS Council on the Arts

ALFRED, NY – The Institute for Electronic Arts (IEA) at Alfred University is the recipient of a $25,000 grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). The grant is part of $45 million in funding from the Council on the Arts announced Monday, Jan. 3, by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, which will support the recovery of the nonprofit arts and culture sector throughout the state.

With this third round of funding, NYSCA has awarded more than $80 million since June 2021, out of a total $105 million earmarked for Fiscal Year 2022. “The arts have long been a critical sector in our economy, and as we continue to rebuild a stronger New York, it's essential we do all we can help this industry thrive once again,” Hochul said in a press release announcing the NYSCA grants. “These awardees represent the best of what New York's vibrant communities have to offer and with this funding in hand, they will be able to not only continue their creative and inspiring work but help spur revitalization in their own backyard as well.”

IEA Director Joseph Scheer said this marks the 22nd consecutive year that IEA has received grant funding from NYSCA. The funds will be used to support IEA’s Artist in Experimental Projects Residency Program that focuses on artists who want to research and advance their work and careers through digital media processes. Artists have access to a combination of emerging, contemporary, and historical media arts tools and materials, many are unique and not ordinarily available in a studio setting.

Artists will be selected by IEA’s annual call. The application process can be found here. IEA has sponsored over 300 residencies since its founding in 1997 and is supported by the Schein Joseph Endowment, Alfred University’s School of Art and Design, and the Division of Expanded Media.

NYSCA representatives lauded the grant program and congratulated the IEA for the part it will play in reinvigorating the state’s art industry.

“The New York State Council on the Arts applauds Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature for their responsive investment of $105 million for the nonprofit arts and culture sector,” said Mara Manus, NYSCA executive director. “2022 will continue to bring change and the Institute for Electronic Arts at Alfred University will play a vital role in the renewal of our state’s economy and creative ecosystem. On behalf of the entire NYSCA Team, we wish to extend our sincere congratulations on your award.”

Added Katherine Nicholls, NYSCA chair: “Council congratulates the Institute for Electronic Arts on their grant award! New York State arts and culture organizations inspire New Yorkers and cultivate community in every region. Arts and culture are crucial to our state’s health, and Council recognizes the dynamic impact of NYSCA grantees on the well-being of all New Yorkers.”