Thank you for your interest in Arts Funding in Pawtucket. The City of Pawtucket, recognizing the importance of art and artists, has been very proactive in creating an artist friendly environment in the City. In 1998, the Rhode Island General Assembly passed a law establishing an Arts and Entertainment District in an area of the City that encompasses the downtown and mill district areas (approximately 307 acres). Designated as a model development project, the State and City provide significant tax incentives to artists selling original art, who live and work within the district, and to art galleries that are established within the district boundaries.

Since January 1, 1999, state sales tax exemptions can be obtained for artworks sold within the arts and entertainment district for "one-of-a-kind" or limited production works of art. The law also exempts artists living and working within the newly created district from state income tax on the income generated from their creative work as an artist, writer, dance, composer/performer, sculptor, painter, photographer, actor, etc.

This grant program is another way the City can be supportive of developing arts for the community and its artists. Grants up to $2,000 are available to any arts organization or artist whose work will primarily benefit the City of Pawtucket and its residents. Funds will be reimbursed upon completion of the project. If this is a problem for you or your organization, please attach a statement to explain your circumstances. Grant applications and required attachments are due to the Office of the City Clerk, 137 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02860 by no later than 4:00pm on December 18, 2009. No late applications will be accepted. Please direct any questions to Susan Mara at (401) 724-5200 or e-mail maras@psdri.net.

Thank you for your interest and support of the arts in Pawtucket.