Create Council's Stella Yoon highlights $208K regrant program for Columbia County artists

Columbia County's arts community is set to receive a significant boost following the recent meeting of the Columbia County Government's Public Works Committee on March 19, 2025. The Create Council in the Arts, led by Executive Director Stella Yoon, announced the allocation of $208,000 in funding for arts initiatives across Columbia, Greene, and Silver Lake Counties, with Columbia County being the largest participant.

During the meeting, Yoon highlighted the importance of the regrant programs administered by the Create Council, which have been instrumental in supporting local artists and organizations. This year, the council received 105 applications, with nearly 40% coming from Columbia County alone. A total of $89,500 has been awarded to 23 projects, which include a diverse range of community programming, concerts, and youth initiatives.

Yoon emphasized the council's commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration among artists. The Create Council has introduced a new initiative aimed at individual artists, offering $1,000 grants to support the production of new work. This program prioritizes low-income artists, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder creative expression.

The meeting also touched on the broader impact of the arts on economic development and community well-being. Yoon expressed a desire to enhance collaboration with local organizations and explore new projects, including a potential Poet Laureate program for Columbia County.

As the Create Council celebrates its 50th anniversary, the focus remains on strengthening the arts ecosystem in the region. The funding and initiatives discussed during the meeting are expected to enrich the cultural landscape of Columbia County, providing vital resources for artists and enhancing the community's quality of life.