• community arts

Community arts projects are collaborations between professional artists and a distinct community (as defined by factors including but not limited to ethnicity, living conditions, geographic location, age, beliefs, traditions, social or economic strata). Community arts uses artistic activities and expressions to support the development and improvement of the quality of life of a community. 

Lee Fund for the Arts

Since 1969, the Clifford E. Lee Foundation has enhanced the quality of life for people living in the Edmonton area. Throughout its history, the arts have been a major focus of the Lee Foundation. The Lee Foundation ceased operations in 2003, but continues its commitment to supporting the arts through the Lee Fund for the Arts, a permanent endowment fund administered by the Edmonton Arts Council. The Lee Fund for the Arts will maintain and build on the arts legacy established by the Clifford E. Lee Foundation.

The Lee Fund for the Arts will invest in Edmonton's community by providing funding for community arts projects which are described as collaborations between professional artists and a distinct community (as defined by factors including but not limited to ethnicity, living conditions, geographic location, age, beliefs, traditions, social or economic strata). Community arts uses artistic activities and expressions to support the development and improvement of the quality of life of a community. It can involve one or more art practices, such as music, dance, theatre, visual arts, new media or storytelling, but the collaborative involvement of professional artists with community members is a necessary component.

*Note: The Lee Fund for the Arts is an endowment fund and grant funds are derived from interest earned on the endowment. In 2009, revenue generated from this endowment will be less than in previous years, therefore the maximum grant amount is reduced for 2009 from $15,000 to $10,000.

Eligibility:

• Grants can be made to individuals or organizations.

• Individuals must be 18 years of age or older; a resident of the greater Edmonton region for at least one year prior to the date the application is received, and a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant.

• The Lee Fund for the Arts is not restricted to charitable or non-profit organizations. Informal organizations such as actors' co-ops or musical ensembles are eligible to apply.

• Grants cannot be retroactive and cannot be applied to activity undertaken prior to the application deadline.

• Past recipients of the Lee Fund for the Arts who have outstanding final reports must submit final reports before any new applications will be considered.

Grants will not be awarded for:

• capital expenditure;

• endowments or annual campaigns;

• on-going operations for organizations;

• formal academic research or study;

• projects already completed;

• attending or participating in seminars, workshops, conferences or tours;

• awards ceremonies, galas, or similar events.

Download the 2010 Application

Updated application forms will be posted when they are available. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact EAC grants staff.