Making Connections

NEFA is an engine of creative exchange. In New England and beyond, NEFA establishes vital connections among artists, presenters, the public, and other supporters of the arts.

Engaging audience and community members

When it comes to connecting artists and the public, performances are just the beginning. NEFA’s programs encourage layers of community engagement that link artists, audiences, supporters, and presenters in creative and thought-provoking ways. Workshops, Q&A sessions, and labs transform artists into educators, and audience and community members into active participants, while residencies allow artists time to become more deeply engaged with projects, people, and places.

Our programs strive to increase access to the arts – to connect artists and communities in regions that lack strong cultural infrastructure and to help build relationships among community members and artists that last long after a project ends.

Providing resources for presenters

Whether hosting a touring performance or an artist’s residency, presenters play an integral role in the arts delivery system. NEFA’s grant programs are designed to support presenting organizations large and small, from performing arts centers to libraries, museums, schools, and coffeehouses. Many of these presenters connect with artists through MatchBook.org, our searchable online database of New England performing artists. MatchBook.org offers tools that allow presenters to find artists, view digital work samples, and arrange bookings.

NEFA also helps develop knowledge and strengthen connections among presenters through conferences such as the Idea Swap, an annual networking event for presenters interested in applying to our Expeditions grant program. Presenters come together to learn from each other and share ideas for visual, literary, and performing arts touring projects. Participants are encouraged to collaborate on the development of projects and can apply for both planning and implementation grants through the Expeditions program.
 

Stay Connected

Receive the latest news, grant offerings, and community events.

Sign up