The foundation was created in 2007 to award charitable and educational gifts which reflected John’s interests and values. John’s skills as a fine furniture maker were a result of passion, dedication and the guidance of a well-known furniture artist. Without that guidance, John would not have realized his capabilities. In an effort to support the art that John loved and the people who make it, the Foundation has created a fellowship to encourage and support young-in-career furniture artists with the financial assistance to help them succeed in their journey. The fellowship is designed to help talented furniture artists fulfill an apprenticeship, develop their own skills, and/or make the transition to independence.

The John D. Mineck Furniture Fellowship is administered by The Society of Arts and Crafts (SAC).

FELLOWSHIP
The John D. Mineck Furniture Fellowship of $25,000 is awarded annually to one artist.

SELECTION GUIDELINES & CRITERIA
• The fellowship will focus on furniture makers whose work is contemporary and functional*
• The fellowship will focus on artists who live/work in Northeast United States*
• The following criteria will be considered in evaluating applications:
     • Quality of the artwork, strength of vision and a portfolio that evidences growth beyond school or university work
     • Artwork and resume demonstrate perseverance and commitment to artistic career
     • The strength and feasibility of the fellowship proposal
     • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
     • Artist collaborations will be considered
     • Currently enrolled, full-time students are not eligible

FELLOWSHIP FUND USES
Examples of expenses that would be allowable include:
    • Opportunities for advanced study or apprenticeship with a significant mentor
    • Attending professional development classes/workshops
    • Equipment or supplies related to artwork
    • Upgrade or rental of studio space
    • Marketing and website development
    • Travel related to artwork (conferences, expos, exhibitions, shows, etc)
    • The portion of federal income taxes directly related to the fellowship income
Examples of expenses that would NOT be allowable include:
    • Purchase of real estate, rent, mortgage payments
    • Tuition or classes related to a degree
    • Paying off education loans or past debt

* Traditional and sculptural furniture makers as well as candidates from other regions in the United States may be considered.

FELLOWSHIP RECIPIENT
Fellows will be required to sign a contract agreeing to the following terms:

• Fellows are required to provide a mid-term and final report to SAC during the award period which describes progress made on the plan, any changes to the plan and the impact on artistic development. The reports may take the form of a conversation, email or a letter.
• Fellows must file a financial report to the SAC at the end of the award period that outlines how funds were used.
• Fellows are encouraged to attend the John D. Mineck golf tournament in Massachusetts to share their experiences and the impact the fellowship has made or will make on their career.
• Fellows are requested to acknowledge funding by the John D. Mineck Foundation in any promotional materials, shows, events, or publications that result from award activities, and notify SAC of any publicity that results from the award.
• Fellows are required to make themselves available to the press to promote the award. This may include studio visits, photo shoots, interviews, and events.

Please note: Grants are subject to state and federal income tax. The portion of federal income tax related to the income resulting from receiving the Artist Fellowship is an allowable expense in the application budget. Please contact the IRS or your tax preparer for further information.

Applications for the 2012 John D. Mineck Fellowship will be posted in Spring 2012.

Top Images: Bart Niswonger, Green and White Cabinets, 2011 Mineck Recipient
Middle Images: Libby Schrum, Table detail and Lounge Chair, 2010 Mineck Recipient