Joyce Awards recognize artists of color who collaborate with nonprofit institutions by awarding them $50,000 to commission thought-provoking works of art, which aim to strengthen cross-cultural understanding by bringing diverse audiences together. The 2014 Joyce Awards were given to four African American women who will contribute to vigorous dialogue through theater, dance and classical music arts across the Midwest.
“Throughout the Joyce Awards’ 11 years, we have been so proud to support over 35 community-oriented arts projects to diversify and engage audiences and artists,” said Ellen Alberding, the President of The Joyce Foundation. “This year’s endeavors bring strong voices to the table and showcase the incredible artistic talent of these four women, and we’re excited to be part of the process.”
Built on the resources of an Iowa family and located for the last 60 years in Chicago, The Joyce Foundation is proud to support the hard work, innovation, and community spirit of people in the Great Lakes region. The region faces the challenges that are epitomized in the "Rust Belt" label. But it is also home to America's largest freshwater resource, its most fertile farmland, an energetic and diverse population, dozens of Fortune 500 companies along with thousands of smaller enterprises, and a cultural heritage ranging from Motown and the Cleveland Symphony to Frank Lloyd Wright and Oprah Winfrey. The Joyce Foundation seeks to ensure the continuing vitality of the Great Lakes region and to make sure that benefits are widely shared among its people.