The Tacoma Arts Commission recently awarded $265,000 to nine Tacoma-based arts organizations through its Arts Anchor Fund program, which supports artistic fees and production expenses to keep arts activities affordable and accessible. The awards range in value from $25,000 to $40,000. The 2011-2012 recipients are the Grand Cinema; Hilltop Artists in Residence; Museum of Glass; Northwest Sinfonietta; Tacoma Art Museum; Tacoma Musical Playhouse; Tacoma Opera; Tacoma Symphony Orchestra; and Tacoma Youth Symphony Association. In 2010, these nine organizations served 433,842 people, provided free admission to 77,941 people, and generated an estimated $10.3 million in collateral spending for the local economy. The Tacoma Arts Commission established the biennial Arts Anchor Fund program in 1995 to provide financial support to major local not-for-profit arts organizations that significantly improve the quality of life for the citizens of Tacoma. These art organizations serve Tacomas community through regularly scheduled performances, exhibits and events, as well as through school and outreach programs. The Arts Anchor Fund is one of three funding programs administered by the Tacoma Arts Commission. For a complete listing of funding programs, funded projects and information about the Tacoma Arts Commission, visit http://www.tacomaculture.org .
