As arts funding gets cut across the country, we are excited to have the opportunity to share some good news and congratulate the 28 fiscally sponsored artists and organizations that received a $10,000 grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) for fiscal year 2026 through ASI. These grants will fund various artistic projects to be completed in 2026 across New York State.

NYSCA funded more than 2,400 grants totaling over $63 million to nonprofit arts and culture organizations and individual artists. The 28 ASI sponsored grantees are part of an incredible group of recipients who are doing impactful work for and in the community.

The following artists and projects sponsored by ASI were chosen by NYSCA for funding:

The funding received by these artists and organizations will be used for the completion of artist projects that will allow for significant artist growth and development. This opportunity for support is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. 

Mary artists face challenges in their creative pursuits, such as finding funding, building a portfolio, marketing their work, and earning a living while creating.  Recognition through support like this impacts not only the project that was funded but supports future work and launches artistic careers.

ASI’s fiscal sponsorship program provides professional guidance and clear communication of deadlines and requirements. This support allows artists to reach opportunities that may otherwise be unattainable.

“[ASI is] an organization that is deeply rooted in the Buffalo community and shares many of the goals we artists have,” shared Brazilian-born journalist and filmmaker Brenda Feldstein. Her project “Love Letters to Music”, a feature-length documentary on JoAnn Falletta, the Music Director of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, is intended to provide viewers with a hopeful, human-centered story of resilience and leadership.

Chautauqua County based artist Brian Millspaw shared, “ASI has made it easy to apply for the NYSCA grant, which will allow me more time to explore new methods and designs.” Brian’s project “Bending Tradition” explores the evolution of historical American chairmaking.

“Working with ASI made it easier for me to tap into [this opportunity], and take the risk on my art,” said musician and educator Eric Crittenden. His project “The Ballad of Black Joe Hodge” is a new original concert work that shares the story of Buffalo’s first known Black landowner, Joseph “Black Joe” Hodge.

We are excited to watch these artists develop and create their works over the coming year and to support as many artists as possible in pursuing their vision and achieving their goals with financial support.

Learn more about ASI’s Fiscal Sponsorship program here.