Multiple grants awarded by Southwest Minnesota Arts Council

A number of area organizations have been awarded Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Art Project grants. These grants provide organizations in the SMAC region with up to $7,000 to stimulate and encourage the creation, performance and appreciation of the arts. 

JD Productions in Jackson has been awarded $7,000 for a production of "Moonglow," a play that explores love, memory and the passage of time, in August. Rhythm of the River in Jackson was also awarded $7,000 for its music festival at Fort Belmont in July 2025. In addition to music, the festival includes songwriter/storytelling sessions and workshops, children's activities and regional artisans.

Additionally, the Murray County Historical Society in Slayton received a grant for $3,050 for its annual Front Porch Music Concert Series on the front porch of the historic Dinehart Holt House. Friends of the Edgerton Public Library was awarded $2,781 for hosting Missoula Children's Theatre for a production of "Blackbeard the Pirate" in August. 

SMAC also announced the awarding of Quick Support for Organizations grants to multiple entities. These grants provide organizations with up to $2,500 for activities. 

Among the recipients is the Jackson Center for the Arts, which was awarded $2,394 for providing space and art materials for young people to spend time at the Art Center two to three afternoons and evenings per week. Students between the ages of 15 and 24 will have the opportunity to explore a variety of art mediums in a safe space.