The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts has announced a commitment of $1 million to the LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund to support artists and arts workers who have suffered losses from the devastating wildfires gripping Los Angeles. The Foundation’s commitment to artists and the institutions that support them is unflinching in the wake of the disaster, as is its belief that foundations and cultural organizations have a significant role to play in fortifying communities in times of crisis.
“As a foundation dedicated to supporting artists, the Warhol Foundation is especially attuned to the vulnerabilities of artistic communities and the hardships inflicted upon them following a disastrous event like the fires in Los Angeles,” says Joel Wachs, President of the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, “We know first-hand that Los Angeles is home to one of the largest and most vibrant populations of visual artists in the country and we are proud to join forces with other foundations, arts organizations and individuals to maximize the impact of relief efforts for those affected by the wildfire crisis.”
The contribution of $1million to LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund– which is administered by the Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI) – underlines the Foundation’s commitment to working collaboratively with other philanthropic entities, particularly other artist endowed foundations, to reach artists and cultural workers in a robust and timely manner. Grants will be distributed to those most affected by the wildfires, who have lost their homes, artistic studios, or both.
“This important collaboration with national and international funders, enables the Warhol Foundation to support artistic communities that have been directly affected by the tragic fires in Los Angeles in an immediate and meaningful way. Through this effort we assert the fundamental value of artists and art workers to the life of our cities and band together with likeminded funders to come to their aid during this time of crisis” states Rachel Bers, Program Director, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.
The LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund is intended to help affected individuals remain in Los Angeles County and to help them rebuild their lives and restore their livelihoods and communities. The Fund welcomes additional support.
To join the coalition and partner in this initiative, please visit LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund
Beginning Monday, January 20, artists and arts workers in all disciplines who have been impacted by the fires can go to cciarts.org to apply for an emergency grant.