Arts and Culture in Oakland
Learn about the City’s cultural funding program, which provides approximately $1 million annually in grants to support the arts; the public art program, which commissions and supports public art across Oakland; professional development programs for artists and arts organizations; special events support; film production permitting; and walking tours.
Featured Resources
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Mayor's Artist Task Force on Affordable Housing and Workspaces
In 2015, Mayor Schaaf convened a task force to identify strategies for stemming the displacement of artists from Oakland.
- A summary of the Task Force’s recommendations are included in the Task Force memorandum.
- A more complete compilation of the Task Force’s work is in the final White Paper.
Resources for Arts Organizations and Artists Facing Displacement
Keeping-Space Oakland
CAST’s new pilot program dedicated to preserving real estate for Oakland’s arts and culture organizations that are facing displacement. Through direct financial grants, one-on-one technical assistance and strategic real estate cohort training, CAST’s goal is to provide safe, stable and permanent real estate solutions for Oakland’s local arts organizations. The application period closed February 10.
Kenneth Rainin Foundation's Arts Real Estate Strategy
This website has resources for arts and cultural organizations facing displacement in cities and communities across the country. The collaborative strategy provides a roadmap for arts organizations, cities, funders and others to address the real estate needs of arts and cultural nonprofits. The strategy is based on the Rainin Foundation's success of two projects in San Francisco and on more recent initiatives in Oakland.
Comprehensive Counseling and Emergency Financial Assistance
The Actors Fund is a national human services organization that helps professionals in film, theatre, television, music, opera, radio and dance. The Fund’s programs include social services and emergency financial assistance, health care and insurance counseling, housing, and employment and training services those in need, crisis or transition. To speak with a counselor for assistance and more information, call (323) 933-9244 ext 455.
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