Northern Kentucky Creative Placemaking Grant

Northern Kentucky Creative Placemaking Grant is sponsored by ArtsWave and meetNKY. Encourages arts and cultural heritage projects in Northern Kentucky to drive economic vitality and community connection.

ArtsWave, meetNKY award $58K for creative placemaking projects - Movers & Makers ArtsWave and meetNKY have awarded $58,000 in grants to nine creative placemaking projects designed to highlight Northern Kentucky’s cultural identity and spark economic growth.

The initiative, part of a strategic partnership between the nonprofits , aims to use the arts to amplify the region’s unique character while advancing the goals of ArtsWave’s Blueprint for Collective Action. Funded projects will take place between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026.

“Kentucky Gateway” mural by Maya Hayuk (Photo credit: Goldman Global Arts) “This partnership with meetNKY represents a significant investment in Northern Kentucky’s cultural landscape,” said Alecia Kintner , president and CEO of ArtsWave. “By supporting these innovative projects, we’re not just funding great art, we’re strengthening community connections and driving economic growth throughout the region.

” Each grant provides up to $10,000 for efforts such as African cultural festivals, free Shakespeare performances, library concert tours and community art activations. The organization Americans for the Arts, arts-driven development helps stimulate local economies and attract tourism, an important strategy for regions like Northern Kentucky looking to grow. The funded projects span Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties.

“These creative placemaking projects will transform public spaces across Northern Kentucky into vibrant cultural destinations,” said Julie Kirkpatrick , president and CEO of meetNKY, the regional tourism board. “By showcasing our region’s unique artistic and cultural assets, we’re enhancing Northern Kentucky’s appeal as a destination for visitors while creating meaningful experiences for residents.

” Bi-Okoto – “Afrika On The Move,” a pop-up cultural festival series with music, dance, food and art The Center for Great Neighborhoods – “Sparks in the Park,” five youth- and family-focused community events in Covington Cincinnati Shakespeare Company – “Shakespeare in the Park in NKY,” free live theater in outdoor public spaces Kentucky African Women Association – “The African Art Showcase,” a biannual event featuring African and diaspora artists Kentucky Symphony Orchestra – “KSO/NKY Public Library Tour,” six free concerts at libraries across the region Queer Kentucky – “Arts and Culture in NKY,” a digital magazine spotlighting local artists and cultural assets ReNewport – “The Orchard Project,” a creative alleyway activation with markets, art and performances Southbank Shakespeare – “Summer Season” expansion, more performances in more NKY communities Urban Appalachian Community Coalition – “Woven Branches Project,” a visual arts and writing collaboration exploring Appalachian migration stories Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Print (Opens in new window) Discover more from Movers & Makers ← Kevin Finn is a leader in preventing homelessness GCF unveils $1B plan to boost regional impact →