Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME)  is a Long-Time Supporter of the Arts in Maine.

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree D-ME., Chair of the House Interior Appropriations Subcommittee and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Arts Caucus, today announced eleven grants totaling $1,026,000 have been awarded to Maine arts institutions through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

“As vaccination rates rise and arts institutions across Maine begin to open their doors for the summer season, I’m proud to see this generous NEA funding distributed to local arts institutions.  With the help of these funds, Maine artists and art lovers alike will be able to once again enjoy the sense of community provided by our cultural institutions,” said Pingree.  “…… I worked to secure this support because I know the outsize impact arts funding has in our state.  Many thanks to the NEA and all of Maine’s art institutions for their support of our creative economy.”

A partial list of those receiving funding include:  MAINE ARTS COMMISSION, $821,000, Augusta; MAYO STREET ARTS, $10,000, Portland; THE TELLING ROOM, $20,000 Portland; and MAINE CRAFTS ASSOCIATION, $20,000, West Gardiner.

The Maine Crafts Association will use the NEA funds to support five craft apprenticeships in 2022, according to Sadie Bliss, Executive Director.