2023 ArtsWave YP Grants

ArtsWave YP Grants support programs with a a goal or demonstrated impact to engage young professionals in the Cincinnati region. Grants are made possible by the donations of young professionals to the ArtsWave Community Campaign.

Here are the projects that will receive the grant in 2023:

Sweet Sistah Splash | "AfroArt After Dark"

Sweet Sistah Splash's "AfroArt After Dark" is an annual event that commissions interactive installations or projects from young artists of color and invites their peers to engage with the work. Artists will create selfie-based installations like a rose wall made of African fabric, body painters, life-size woodworks and more. Each requires visitors to engage with the art to bring it to life..

American Legacy Theatre | "Young Professionals Create Change"

American Legacy Theatre's "Young Professionals Create Change" is a six-month cohort program for Cincinnati's up-and-coming workforce. Participants will learn to amplify their voices by writing, producing and performing in an original stage play, building critical leadership skills like budgeting, emotional intelligence and empathic listening.

Bi-Okoto | "Agidigbo"

In Nigeria, "Agidigbo" is inspired by social gatherings in Nigeria where young adults interact, learn, train and engage with the community. Bi-Okoto will bring the experience to students from select local colleges and young professionals from a variety of backgrounds. The monthly gathering will foster positive interactions through drumming, dancing, play reading and networking.

Young Professionals Choral Collective | "Requiem for COVID-19"

YPCC's Chamber Choir will collaborate with composer Yvonne Freckman and a local chamber orchestra to perform a requiem for COVID-19. The 35-minute piece will use the words and experiences of both YPCC singers and audience members as powerful lyrics at the spring 2023 Chamber Choir concert.

Action Tank USA | "Action Tank Civic Club"

"Action Tank Civic Club" is a partnership between Action Tank and local businesses and nonprofits, including Findlay Market, Know Theatre of Cincinnati, and Lost & Found OTR. The program provides civic engagement opportunities and resources for young professionals through provocative art. In 2023, Action Tank will add arts-driven, in-person events to its offerings, where civically engaged artists can help young professionals deepen their local connections.

Cincinnati Opera | "Center Stage"

Cincinnati Opera’s young professionals group, "Center Stage," engages young professional community members in operatic arts through unique events and collaborations with community partners. These events, leading up to and throughout the 2023 summer season, enrich the lives of developing professionals and create cultural interest and investment in the community.

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | "YP Preview Night"

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company's "YP Preview Night" brings young professionals to the first public preview performance night of each Mainstage Show, offering reduced-rate tickets that include a complimentary beverage. After the show, the members of the artistic team chat with attendees, welcoming feedback and connections. The program provides a mid-week outing where young professionals can relax and socialize while making their voices through participation in the art-making process.

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | "Show Up!"

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati’s "Show Up!" series unites new-to-the-region young professionals with lifelong residents to experience the Cincinnati region’s vibrant arts, culture and food scene. YP attendees will enjoy a performance of each of ETC’s premiere series productions, followed by complimentary small bites and a beverage while they mingle and discuss the show at partner venues 1215 Wine Bar and Coffee Lab and Copper & Flame.