Pam Mayor, Chairman Elect of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival Foundation, and recent graduate Manola Silva-Hanson joined Inside South Florida to share insights on the extensive programs and scholarships provided by the foundation, emphasizing the impact these initiatives have on aspiring artists and the community.
Pam Mayor explained the breadth of the foundation's activities, dispelling the common misconception that the Coconut Grove Arts Festival is merely a three-day event. "We work year-round in the community," Mayor stated. The foundation's scholarship program is a testament to their ongoing commitment, with 82 applicants from South Florida high schools recently vying for 16 scholarships. Mayor highlighted the flexibility of these scholarships, noting, "We have no strings attached," allowing recipients to use the funds for various needs, from winter clothing to educational expenses.
The foundation also collaborates with Florida International University (FIU) to offer a designated scholarship program, which will amount to over $90,000 upon completion. Additionally, Mayor proudly discussed their children's area initiative, where artists donate original pieces, enabling children to start their own art collections independently.
Manola Silva-Hanson, a recent graduate of the New World School of the Arts, shared her personal experience with the foundation's support. "I am an awardee of the CGAF Scholarship, where I won $3,000," she explained. Hansen plans to use the funds for essential items like plane tickets and winter clothing as she prepares to attend the Kansas City Art Institute to study textile design and art therapy. Her art, deeply inspired by her Mexican culture, spans mixed media, including paintings, watercolor, sculpture, and installations.
When asked for advice for other aspiring artists, Hansen emphasized the importance of taking risks. "If you have a crazy idea in the back of your head, do it, even if it scares you," she encouraged.
Looking ahead, Mayor shared the foundation's plans for continued community engagement. Last year, they introduced a new program providing art supplies to local schools, churches, and summer programs in Coconut Grove. This initiative ensures that young artists have access to high-quality materials throughout the year.
For more information on the Coconut Grove Arts Festival's programs and scholarships, Mayor directed viewers to visit their website at cgaf.com.
