Twenty-five artists and art organizations were awarded the Folk and Traditional Arts Project Grants by the Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) Division.
The project is meant to make traditional forms of art more accessible for artistic endeavors that are typically underrepresented in the contemporary art space.
Grants were awarded to groups and collectives that had presentations, teaching, performances, public art collaborations, workshops, exhibitions and festivals that were available to the public.
“Folk and traditional art holds a deep connection to the cultural identity and history of a community. We are grateful to these artists and organizations for serving as a living record of their community’s traditions, and sharing their talents to celebrate Colorado’s unique background.”
Groups in 14 counties across Colorado received the grant, including two groups in Southern Colorado.
In Huerfano County, Spanish Peaks Community Foundation - Folklorico Dance was chosen to get the grant. The organization puts on performances showcasing dance that is traditional to the cultural identity of Huerfano County, including performances by El Fandango and Los Vecinos Bailadores at the Fox Theater in Walsenburg, Colorado.
In Pueblo County, Grupo Folklorico Del Pueblo - Dance Folklorico was one of the 25 recipients for its "Dance Exchange Conference." It allows folklorico dance students to learn from other dance instructors and directors from around the state.