Black Belt Treasures awards eight arts, tourism grants

Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center has awarded funds to eight community organizations across Alabama’s Black Belt to assist with growing sustainable tourism through an emphasis on artistic, cultural, and historic assets.

Each of these community organizations submitted applications outlining ways to grow in the area of tourism by identifying brand-new ways or a new addition to an established project/program to market and network their arts, culture, and/or historical uniqueness.

The community organizations receiving these funds are the Tourism Council of Bullock County (Bullock), Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy (Wilcox), Monroe County Museum (Monroe), Old Cahawba Archaeological Park (Dallas), Greensboro Area Business & Tourism (Hale), Historic Pickensville Rosenwald School and Museum (Pickens), Lowndes County Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (Lowndes), and Selma Art Guild (Dallas).

The Black Belt’s rich history in music, literature, theater, folk and visual arts, outdoor recreation and life-defining events come alive in many ways all across our region. The talents of Black Belt artisans, craftsmen, musicians, and culinary creators are showcased in galleries and unique venues found throughout our communities. When combined these assets are compelling and become an essential tool to bring prosperity to our communities through tourism development. 

Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center is grateful for The Daniel Foundation of Alabama’s support that made these financial awards to Black Belt communities possible. The awards ranged from $300 to $1000. More detailed information and updates regarding these projects and programs will be shared over the next few months. All projects are to be completed by Sept. 15, 2023.