Last year, ArtsWave unveiled a brand-new networking group for donors. ArtsWave Pride brings together LGBTQIA+ individuals and Allies through a shared appreciation for the arts. The group has grown faster than any other networking group in its first year.

Alongside the group, ArtsWave unveiled a new Pride grantmaking program. The aim is to promote, celebrate and create inclusive arts experiences that are relevant to the broader LGBTQIA+ community. In December, we awarded the first round of ArtsWave Pride grants selected by community volunteers, including the ArtsWave Pride Steering Committee. We're thrilled to support the following projects. Each was made possible through new and increased gifts from ArtsWave Pride donors during our 2018 campaign:

The Rainbow Film Series
Cincinnati Film Society
This year-long film program will engage the community to create short films. Each film will acknowledge, embrace and celebrate our differences within the LGBTQIA community.

"Marginalia"
Wave Pool
"Marginalia" is Wave Pool's evolving public art piece, popup bookstore and series of programs, all focused on inclusion and creative expression. Programs will include special readings, workshops and discussions in a pop-up garage space in Camp Washington. LGBT artist and activist Karay Martin will lead the public art intervention.

"The Wolves"
Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
"The Wolves" by Sarah DeLappe is a Pulitzer Prize finalist and one of the top ten most-produced plays in the U.S. this season. It tells the story of a high school girls' soccer team as they struggle with sexual identity and awakening.

"Transformations"
Cincinnati Men's Chorus
"Transformations" is a concert that celebrates of the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which sparked the modern gay rights movement. The concert will focus on the contribution of transgender people to the riots and the movement. Audiences will learn about the transgender experience and find empathy for those outside of traditional genders.

"This Time Tomorrow"
Contemporary Arts Center
This performance festival will expand the horizons of Cincinnati’s artists and audiences. LGBTQIA artists will present original, genre-bending, interdisciplinary work dealing with themes of identity.

"Considering Matthew Shepard"
Vocal Arts Ensemble
Craig Hella Johnson will return to Vocal Arts Ensemble with a May 23 performance of "Considering Matthew Shepard. The concert will be a part of the 2019 May Festival. 21-year old student Matthew Shepard was attacked and left for dead because he was openly gay. This piece is inspired by his story. It brings a message of love, understanding and hope that we can move beyond mere tolerance to celebrate diversity.