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INDIANAPOLIS — Several organizations in Indianapolis’ art scene are pulling together to create a support fund for artists of color in Indy.
The mutually-aided collaboration, “The R/Evolution Fund,” is a no-questions-asked bill-pay support system for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). It plans to provide struggling artists with $500 monthly grants.
The R/Evolution Fund is managed by the Indiana Writers Center, Musical Family Tree, The Kheprw Institute, Fourth Sunday Music Co., Abattoir Gallery, and Irvington Vinyl & Books. Elysia Lucinda Smith, the owner of Irvington Vinyl and Books, says the fund has already received four inquiries for monetary help — she expects that number to grow even more as it prepares for a formal launch.
“As a business owner that relies on local artists to help grow my business, I wanted to do something specific to give back, and to ensure the artists I rely on for my business to thrive can thrive alongside me,” Smith said.
The R/Evolution Fund will formally launch with a party involving several of Indy’s local artists on Record Store Day, which is Saturday, June 12. Visitors can expect artwork, live music, and 20% of all proceeds to go toward the support fund. The launch party starts at noon.
“Making an intentional effort to be both of and for the community is a core part of building a future as a business owner,” Smith said. “After a global pandemic and amidst ongoing systematic racism, our local artists deserve our care.”
Read more from WRTV here
New mutual aid fund for BIPOC artists in Indy to launch on Record Store Day was originally published on wtlcfm.com
