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Each fall, I feel my creative energy stir with the shifting daylight and cooler air. I lean into it, channeling that urge into new projects! Lately, that's looked like playful gouache paintings for my 8-month-old’s nursery, and, at work, exploring fresh ways to tackle challenges, like making our programs more accessible and reshaping internal workflows.

I also welcome the season’s theme of gratitude. In my new(ish) role as Senior Program Director, I'm thankful to connect with so many grantees across the state. From this perspective, I get to see both the collective impact of your work and the countless ways people meet big challenges every day with creativity and heart.

Your energy, persistence, and ingenuity open up exciting new possibilities for Maryland artists and communities to make, share, and experience art together daily. And I'm grateful for this season, for this view, and for the endless potential of the creativity and community that we're building together.

Jess Porter

Senior Program Director

Now accepting applications

Musicians playing together at Common Ground on the Hill Roots Music & Arts Festival (Carroll).

News and updates

Maryland's new Nonprofit Navigator

Sign up for email updates from the Nonprofit Navigator, a free resource offering assistance for grantseekers exploring all sectors of state government.

Creative Forces grant due January 15

National arts funding opportunity for military-connected applicants offered by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Mid-America Arts Alliance.

Need help with public art contracts?

Join us on Tuesday, November 18, for our always-popular session on getting help with the public art contracting process! Learn more and register here.

Creativity grant transition notice

Creativity's General Operating Support track will permanently close after Wednesday, December 31, with a new option becoming available through GFO.

In the field

Arts, entertainment, and all smiles at last month's A&E convening!

Maryland’s network of Arts & Entertainment (A&E) Districts gathered for a full day of camaraderie, connection, and community during an A&E District Leadership Convening in Montgomery County last month! They exchanged resources and inspiration, and explored the districts in Silver Spring and Wheaton.

Accessibility statement

The Maryland State Arts Council is committed to making sure all Marylanders can access its programs and services. Please visit our Accessibility page for more information. If you have further questions or require accommodations, fill out the Accommodations Request Form or contact our Office Secretary at msac.commerce@maryland.gov.