Local artists who are planning a teaching career in the arts have until April 28 to apply for fellowships of up to $12,000 for graduate school through the Antonio Cirino Memorial Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation.  

“Artists can serve their craft in many ways,” said Daniel Kertzner, the Foundation’s grantmaker in the Arts sector. “Sharing their expertise, perspective and passion in the classroom can inspire the creativity of others.”

First-time applicants can receive fellowships of up to $12,000 to pursue masters or doctorate degrees. Recipients can apply for funding for up to two additional years. Applicants must be Rhode Island residents and artists.

Antonio Cirino was a prominent Rhode Island artist, author and teacher. In 1912 he joined the faculty at the Rhode Island School of Design, where he taught for nearly 40 years.

A prolific oil painter, Cirino was honored by the Salmangundi Club of New York City, the Rockport Art Association and the Providence Art Club. His impressionistic work of New England landscapes is exhibited in public, private and national collections and galleries. 

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in the state. In 2016, the Foundation awarded a record $45 million in grants to organizations addressing Rhode Island’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities. Through leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information about applying for a Cirino fellowship, visit rifoundation.org.