Making it real.
My thoughts on recent cuts to arts funding in Columbus, Ohio by the state and the Trump administration -- and my hopes for all artists during this strange time.
I am incredibly grateful to announce that I have received a 2025 Funds for Artists Grant from the Greater Columbus Arts Council. This news has left me overwhelmed, thankful, and even more thoughtful and introspective on the current climate at hand, to say the very least. So, per usual Franny fashion... I do have a *few* things to say.
I woke up on July 23rd, and something in my heart told me to apply. A couple of my close friends/creatives encouraged me to look into the GCAC grants, time and time again, but I never made the deadline, was already in the midst of performing, working on writing, yada yada yada. But this year was different. My original work for the stage and screen has become the heart and soul of my artistic work. These days, more than ever, the call to bring these characters, stories, and memories alive have been tugging relentlessly at my pant leg. I really knew, with all certainty, that it was time to make everything I daydream about in the depths of my "Frantasies" alive and breathing -- to truly allow my mind to propel itself off the page and onto the stage. I knew I had a bit more time, but figured I should get things going. It was time to make it real.
Not only 30 minutes after I submitted my application, GCAC announced it's premature closure of applications for the Funds for Artists Grant, due to major cuts in funding from the state and the current Trump administration. Not only would this affect the ability to offer these grants, but it has detrimentally affected budgets for staffing and public art, marketing, and related events for the organization of GCAC itself. My heart dropped for this community; for the promise of extra resources and the overall morale of the collective's hard work, dedication, and adoration of their respective artistic endeavors. It was heavy, and we all know that these cuts were slashed by the only sword we know would: Greed.
I am sure many artists can attest... But, my whole life, non-believers have told me that my choice to pursue the arts as a professional career was both silly and trivial. They implied with a smile that it wasn't necessary. A lot of this concern from people stemmed from "only wanting what was best for me". They wanted me to be comfortable. To never "want". To be "normal". But, anyone who truly knows me, knows that as a self-proclaimed Dreamer... Comfort has never been at the forefront for me, nor has it ever been a guaranteed option. I would rather dream and experience the ups-and-downs of making it all a tangible reality than living a watered down simulation of what I don't see for myself. It is this attitude that has allowed me to further live in my authenticity and wield the power that my art does mean something, and can inspire others to do the same without fear.
Needless to say, The Greater Columbus Arts Council has always strived to elevate this city's artists and give them that extra push of support to awaken their art to the utmost degree, which, in turn, introduces the power to awaken our community to unique perspective and experiences. Though these grants given are never to be expected, they are always always appreciated. The concept-put-into-action that a city sincerely believes in their artists enough to fight for them -- the distinctive quality of their talents, imaginations, and abilities -- has always moved me most of all. Because when the core of your community gives credence to itself, everyone can collectively come together and give itself more permission to realize their creativity more expansively.
With this grant, I plan to bring my next original work to life right here in Columbus, OH. I will be presenting a play I first wrote/directed in 2018 at Denison University entitled 'The Call' to the stage at The Shedd Stage at Columbus Performing Arts Center in early 2026. I will be directing and producing this myself, with the help of a team of creatives I look to assemble this Fall 2025, and I could not be more excited. This is what I've been working towards for the longest, and with the help of GCAC, I am able to make it the best it can be. I can make it real.
At the end of the day, We have The Power. The Artists. The Community. The People. Who, in their heart of hearts, truly thinks defunding the arts and their makers will bring about a better world in any way? It is the lifeblood all around us, whether we realize it or not. It allows each and every one of us to share in each other and bring us closer to our humanity.
No matter what happens around us -- who tries to deem our work "necessary" or "worthy of funding", or what people who aren't in our field think, or any other power hungry thing -- We MUST keep going. Grant or not, I would have put on my show on my own terms, with whatever means I could get together to make it happen. Artists are the most resilient people I have ever had the privilege of knowing and their craft knows no limitations or bounds. We know our innate powers to create and love through our art will always welcome us home. And one thing's for certain: We do NOT give up and we do NOT stay silent. And, I certainly don't foresee that changing anytime soon.
