The Arts

The Icicle Fund envisions a culture where a diversity of the Arts is accessible and valued as a critical component of vibrant communities in North Central Washington.

We believe that

The Arts nurture the human spirit, transform lives, and connect people to place

The Arts build strong economies and cohesive communities across social, economic, and racial boundaries
The Arts are fundamental to a well-rounded education and help all students to succeed in school and life
Collaboration between community leaders, artists, schools, businesses, and nonprofits ensure sustainable, quality arts programs
Everyone in NCW deserves access to, and engagement with, the Arts at levels similar to urban areas

FUNDING PRIORITIES

Our grant decisions align with the beliefs and vision stated above. We fund art organizations that work towards inspiring an appreciation, understanding and stewardship of NCW.

past arts initiatives

YOUTH ARTS INITIATIVE

In 2017, the Icicle Fund conducted a comprehensive Youth Arts Opportunities Study which identified gaps and opportunities, as well as barriers and supporters for youth arts education inside and outside of schools in the Wenatchee Valley and Okanogan County. The full report and the 2-page summary of this study provided a starting point for coming together and address the identified opportunities and gaps.

Several public schools in NCW now have consistent, quality, sequential, arts education in elementary school due to partnerships and programs initiated with the Youth Arts Initiative.

CHA ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAMS

In 2020 and 2021, Icicle Fund hosted two Artist-In-Residence events to celebrate the Conservation, History and Arts (CHA) of North Central Washington. The goal of the residencies was to honor, celebrate and record the unique environmental aspects of the Methow River and Wenatchee River, inspired by revisiting works created by past artists.

For information, click here: CHA CHA — Icicle Fund