For the first time, the Arts Council of the Valley is especially encouraging literary artists and creative writers in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County to apply for a Creative Inspiration Grant, due September 23rd.

Applications containing a literary arts component will receive a marginal bonus when the competing grants are reviewed.

"As always, artists with a vision for an arts-related project are encouraged to apply, even if it is not in the literary arts. Our designated themes will give a small advantage to related applications, but the quality of artistic experience still remains the most important factor in reviewing applications," says Kai Degner, the Arts Council executive director.

Under a newly-released, redesigned grants program, the Arts Council may select a theme for each of the three annual grant cycles, and "Literary Arts" was designated for the applications due September 23rd. A new theme will be announced for the January and May deadlines.

Applications may fall outside of this theme, and the theme should simply encourage artists from one artistic discipline, not discourage artists from other disciplines.

Applications are available online and at the Smith House at 311South Main Street.

Since 2001, the Arts Council has re-granted approximately $250,000 to artists and arts organizations in Harrisonburg Rockingham County.

The Arts Council is supported by the City of Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, and the Virginia Commission for the Arts.