Meow Wolf‘s new foundation has announced more than 60 inaugural grantees for its community grant programme.
The initiative supports 63 organisations in New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada and Texas that are transforming their communities through art and culture.
The programme, with a total funding of $600,000, was established to support communities through direct grants, employee matching gifts, and partnerships with nonprofits.
“As a company founded by artists, that employs artists, and celebrates the inner creative in everyone, Meow Wolf understands firsthand how creativity, imagination, and play can truly transform lives,” said Jose Tolosa, Meow Wolf CEO and board chair of the Meow Wolf Foundation.
He added: “Meow Wolf launched the Meow Wolf Foundation to deepen our commitment to communities and help amplify the critical work of those using art and creativity to change lives and build thriving creative communities.”
The Meow Wolf Foundation was founded by Meow Wolf in 2022 and launched in 2023. The full list of 2023-24 recipients can be viewed here.
Organisations this year include ArtWalk Santa Fe (New Mexico), Cara Mía Theatre (Texas), Dallas Art Therapy (Texas), Denver Art Society (Colorado), Discovery Children’s Museum (Nevada), Las Vegas Indian Center (Nevada), Spark! Dallas (Texas), and the Neon Museum (Nevada).
Transforming communities through art
“Art and creativity has too often been seen as a nice-to-have, instead of a must-have. We want to change this conversation,” said Julie Heinrich, chief impact officer and head of the Meow Wolf Foundation.
“Art and culture organizations typically receive the least amount of philanthropic giving nationally and we think there’s a tremendous opportunity to use art and creativity to heal and transform lives.
“We want to strengthen the art and culture ecosystems in our communities, especially among community-based organizations that are serving those who typically don’t have access, using art and creativity in innovative ways.”
Images courtesy of Meow Wolf
