Rep. Darby Congratulates Tennessee Arts Commission Grant Recipients

NASHVILLE (June 3) — State Rep. Tandy Darby (R-Greenfield) is congratulating recipients across Northwest Tennessee for receiving a combined $30,110 in grant funding through the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Rural Arts Project Support Grant program.

Funding for the Rural Arts Project Support Grant is part of a $13.8 million budget appropriation approved by members of the Tennessee General Assembly for the 2026-27 fiscal year for the sole purpose of supporting art projects and activities that promote community vitality, cultural engagement and access to the arts in Tennessee’s rural communities.

“I’m grateful to the Tennessee Arts Commission for investing in these efforts and recognizing the value the arts bring to communities across our region,” said Darby. “Tennessee’s rural communities have a great deal to offer and these organizations play an important role in preserving local culture, strengthening community connections and enhancing quality of life.”

“Tennessee is fortunate to be a state where few can rival the breadth and depth of its arts and culture. Tennessee boasts a unique array of artistic and cultural assets,” said Anne B. Pope, executive director of the Tennessee Arts Commission. “Arts and culture are vital tools for attracting and retaining businesses and help build stronger communities by enhancing the distinctive character of Tennessee places.”

The following organizations have been awarded Rural Arts Project Support grants:

Northwest Tennessee Development District - $24,790

Weakley County Reconciliation Project - $5,320

Grant applications are evaluated through a competitive review process that includes citizen advisory panels with expertise in various artistic disciplines, followed by review and approval by the full Tennessee Arts Commission.

The Commission anticipates awarding approximately 1,000 grants in both rural and urban communities in all 95 counties of the state during the year, totaling up to $13.8 million in 19 Annual and Rolling Grant categories. Other grant opportunities are offered throughout the year for qualifying organizations, including the Arts Build Communities grant and Student Ticket Subsidy. Additional information on grant programs offered by the Commission is available at TnArtsCommission.org.

Rep. Darby represents District 76, which includes Weakley and part of Carroll and Henry counties.