George Eastman Museum and five other local groups receive total of $1.5M in arts grants

ROCHESTER N.Y. (WHEC) – Six Monroe County arts or cultural organizations are receiving a combined $1.5 million in New York State grants to use for renovations, expansions, or improving their health protection measures.

The New York State Council on the Arts announced the recipients of $20 million grant funding across the state on Thursday. The council aims to boost economic development, job growth, and accessibility in the arts industry by distributing the funding.

Among the 116 organizations to receive a grant was the George Eastman Museum, which will use the $382,000 for its project to preserve and exhibit vintage nitrate film photos. The Hochstein School on Plymouth Avenue received $344,000 to renovate its historic performing hall which is open for public use.

This is the first time ever that the NYSCA has distributed more than $100 million in grants within a one-year period. The other Monroe County recipients are:

• The Rochester Broadway Theatre League for a new theatrical sound system
• The Memorial Art Gallery (owned by the University of Rochester), for a renovation to the sculpture park
• Writers & Books to replace to upgrade the HVAC system
• The Landmark Society of Western New York to improve the Stone-Tolan House

Gov. Kathy Hochul said the grants will help to promote the state’s vibrant culture by celebrating arts and historical sites.

"Congratulations to all grantees embarking on these transformative projects that will demonstrate the arts are both back and thriving," Hochul said.