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Issue 69 / November 7, 2025
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In this issue:
• Meeting the Moment: Highlights from the One State Conference
• Introducing "I Got an FY26 IAC Grant"
• 2026 Access/VSA Emerging Young Artists Program
Literary Arts Fund Initiative to Bolster Nonprofit Literary Arts
• IAC Will be Closed Tuesday, November 11, in Honor of Veterans Day
• Featured Illinois Arts Organization
• Additional Opportunities
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Meeting the Moment: Highlights from the
One State in the Arts & Humanities Conference
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The One State in the Arts & Humanities Conference, co-hosted by the Illinois Arts Council(IAC) and Illinois Humanities(IH), wrapped up a vibrant three-day gathering from November 5-7, 2025, in Champaign-Urbana. The conference, themed "Meeting the Moment," offered a platform for arts, culture, and humanities professionals to engage in dynamic discussions, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities.
The plenary sessions were a highlight, starting with "Meeting the Moment" on the first evening. Held at Carmon's, it featured a powerhouse panel of speakers, including Erin Harkey (Americans for the Arts), Gabrielle H. Lyon (IH), Joshua Davis-Ruperto (IAC), and Monica Eng (Axios). The session set the tone for the conference, addressing the challenges and opportunities within the arts sector. Thursday' plenary, "Investing in What Matters," celebrated milestone anniversaries and emphasized the importance of collaborative cultural investment. The closing plenary, "Moving Forward," featured beautiful readings by Illinois Poet Laureate Mark Turcotte and a final call to "keep speaking, dreaming, and serving."
Professional development sessions spanned various topics, from nonprofit sustainability to creative worker power, providing invaluable resources and insights for attendees. These workshops facilitated peer learning and skill-sharing, crucial in today's ever-evolving cultural landscape.
Networking was at the heart of the conference, with social events such as the kickoff mixer and the "Uncorked" evening at the Krannert Center. Attendees also enjoyed exploring downtown Urbana for a taste of local culture, fostering connections beyond formal sessions. This conference not only strengthened statewide networks but also inspired participants to collaboratively "meet the moment" in the arts and humanities.
Stay tuned for more in next week's Muse, where we'll be sharing exclusive photos and further insights from the conference. Follow us on social media for real-time updates and a closer look at the moments that made this event memorable.
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The Illinois Arts Council (IAC) is excited to launch a new social media campaign celebrating our FY26 grantees! Artists and arts organizations can showcase their achievements by sharing our customizable graphics: "I/We got an FY26 IAC grant." Simply download the PNG or JPG files from our website. You may use the JPG as a standalone graphic or superimpose the PNG file on a photo of yourself or your organization. This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight your hard work and the vital support from the IAC. Let's amplify the arts in Illinois together! Visit our webpage for full instructions and to access the graphics.
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2026 Access/VSA
Emerging Young Artists Program
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Know a U.S.-based young visual artist (ages 16-25) who identifies as disabled and whose work should be part of a national exhibition? Encourage them to apply for the Access/VSA Emerging Young Artist Program. A jury will select fifteen artists to each receive a $3,000 financial stipend, have one of their submitted pieces appear in a national exhibition, and attend a series of all-expenses-paid professional development workshops at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. March 10-14, 2026.
To apply, artists must submit images or videos of at least three pieces and respond to prompts detailing their background, artistic process, unique perspective, and future goals.
The application deadline is November 16, 2025.
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Coalition Launches Historic $50 Million Initiative to Bolster Nonprofit Literary Arts
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The Literary Arts Fund has been unveiled to provide much-needed financial support to nonprofit literary organizations. Spearheaded by a coalition of seven prominent foundations, including the Ford Foundation, Hawthornden Foundation, Lannan Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, Mellon Foundation, Poetry Foundation, and an anonymous contributor, this initiative is set to distribute at least $50 million over the next five years.
The fund aims to address the disparity in funding for literature, which currently receives only 1.9% of arts grants in the U.S. Nonprofit literary organizations play a crucial role in uplifting diverse voices, supporting new and established writers, and fostering connections between authors and readers through various programs and events. The Literary Arts Fund will prioritize supporting organizations that promote contemporary writers across genres such as poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.
Jennifer Benka, a seasoned leader in the literary field, will direct the fund, which will be managed through the National Center for Civic Innovation. The fund's first grant cycle begins on November 10, providing an exciting opportunity for nonprofit literary organizations across the U.S. to secure resources necessary for nurturing the literary arts.
The initiative not only promises financial backing but also aims to cultivate a network of foundation leaders through the Literary Arts Funders Collaborative, encouraging further investment in the literary arts. This new collaboration marks a significant step towards ensuring the vibrancy and diversity of American literature for years to come.
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Featured Illinois Arts Organization
Nielsen Chorale, FY26 General Operating Support
Grant Recipient
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The Nielsen Chorale, founded in 2019, has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of choral excellence in Rockford, Illinois, and nearby communities. As the resident chorus of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, the Chorale showcases an impressive repertoire that spans masterworks for chorus and orchestra, as well as innovative collaborations with local soloists, youth organizations, and instrumentalists. Named in honor of Ralph Nielsen, a pivotal figure in Rockford's choral music history, the Chorale operates under a flexible three-tiered structure. This includes the full ensemble, a chamber chorus of approximately 40 singers, and Ancora, a select 12-member ensemble. As a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the Nielsen Chorale is dedicated to enriching and inspiring its community through the power of choral music.
The Chorale recently appointed Joel Ross as its new Artistic Director, a decision that aligns with its mission to elevate the community's cultural landscape. Ross, a lifelong resident of Rockford, brings over 40 years of diverse experience in the choral field, including roles as a music director, educator, and composer. Known for his artistic excellence and leadership, Ross has a proven track record in collaborating with boards, managing administrative tasks, and spearheading fundraising initiatives. Aside from his choral endeavors, Ross serves as the principal keyboardist for the Rockford Symphony and is actively involved with the Elgin Symphony and other musical organizations.
Kristin Hatch, Board President of the Nielsen Chorale, expressed her enthusiasm about Ross's appointment, underscoring his exceptional experience and deep ties to the Rockford music community. "Joel's appointment reflects our mission 'to enrich and inspire our community through choral music,'" said Hatch. "His unparalleled experience, deep connections in the Rockford music community, and passion for choral artistry make him the ideal leader to guide the Chorale into its next chapter." Under Ross's leadership, the Chorale looks forward to a vibrant season that kicks off with the cherished tradition of the Holiday Pops, along with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra conducted by maestro Kevin Stites on December 20th and 21st. Tickets may be purchased at https://www.rockfordsymphony.com. In the spring, the Nielsen Chamber Choir will be joined by Kantorei, the Auburn HS Capa Treble Choir, and the Guilford HS Treble Choir for John Rutter's "Mass of the Children." This memorable concert will be held at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Rockford on Sunday, April 19th.
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Other Opportunities You May Have Missed
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The Muse, the Illinois Arts Council Newsletter, is published weekly. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the IAC is strictly prohibited. The Muse is distributed free of charge.
Do you have an arts story you think Illinois needs to hear about? We want to hear from you! Submissions should focus on artist/organizational opportunities or on the impact of the arts on communities, the people creating art, or those experiencing art. Share your story with our Director of Communications at [email protected]. The IAC reserves the right to edit or reject any material.
This week's banner features Cedarhurst Center for the Arts & Mitchell museum in Mt Vernon, Illinois - photo courtesy of EnjoyIllinois
arts.illinois.gov
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