Light Work, UVP, and PAL Project Awarded Grants from Joy of Giving Something, Inc. (JGS)

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Light Work, Urban Video Project (UVP) and Photography and Literacy Project (PAL Project) are pleased to announce the receipt of $300,000 in grants from the Joy of Giving Something, Inc. (JGS). Distributed over the next three years, the funds will support education initiatives, artist residencies, and exhibitions dedicated to the photographic arts. Light Work will receive $150,000 and PAL Project and UVP will receive $75,000 respectively.

The JGS grant will help Light Work continue to realize a core vision of supporting emerging and under-recognized photographers who are exploring different photographic narratives and technical approaches to the medium. Light Work Director, Shane Lavalette stated, “We’re absolutely honored that JGS has recognized Light Work to be among the nation’s most impactful artistic programs, and are thrilled to receive this significant award at a moment in which the support of creative work by artists is as crucial as ever.”


Stephen Mahan (right), director of SU’s PAL Project, discusses a photo with a Fowler student. photo credit: John Dowling

PAL Project Director, Stephen Mahan, spoke to the opportunity for growth the grant affords the organization. “With this generous grant from JGS Inc., PAL Project’s Syracuse University mentors will continue and expand their ongoing mission to give voice and empower Syracuse city youth through the use of photography and creative writing. Application of this grant towards scholarships, exhibitions, publications and photographic equipment will foster the development of our student’s potential and self-esteem, giving our students greater opportunity to utilize their creativity, energy, and voice in self-satisfying and socially relevant directions. This funding allows us to grow the Project into a more robust curriculum with a wider reach. We are very thankful.”


Installation view of “Fireworks (Archives)” by Apichatpong Weera

In anticipation of the grant announcement, Urban Video Project Director, Anneka Herre stated, “UVP is truly excited to receive this recognition and support from JGS to put towards the strengthening of our uniquely public moving image exhibition and events programming. Given both current threats to funding in the arts and the importance of public art in creating dialogue, these funds come at an opportune time and mean a great deal to us.”

Established in 1999 by the late Howard Stein, The Joy of Giving Something, Inc. (JGS), is a foundation dedicated to the photographic arts. The Joy of Giving Photographs from the JGS collection are made available as loans to major museums around the world. JGS is also committed to advancing the arts in education. Working in partnership with museums, schools, and community organizations across the country, JGS has established scholarships to support students pursuing post-secondary studies in photography or media art. Additionally, through its Resolution program, JGS provides opportunities for teens to publish and exhibit their work in the context of social awareness.

Reflecting on this legacy Light Work, Executive Director, Jeffrey Hoone stated, “Over 20 years ago I worked with Howard Stein to form The Joy of Giving Something, Inc. (JGS) as a charitable institution to support programs in photography and forward-looking projects in the arts. Before Mr. Stein passed away in 2011, JGS supported a wide range of exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. Mr. Stein generously donated his substantial photography collection to JGS and through a series of auctions, the Foundation has raised funds to continue the charitable work in the arts that Mr. Stein started so many years ago. As a board member of JGS, it is a great honor to continue the good work of Mr. Stein and to be able to support the next generation of image makers and forward-thinking artists.”