At the May 11, 2023, meeting, the Central MN Arts Board (CMAB) awarded a total of $27,535 in Public Art Grants. The CMAB Public Art program provides funds for the completion of well-planned works of public art that are accessible to the public and supported by the community. An organization must provide a minimum of 25% in matching funds. Public Art Grants are provided through Minnesota’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

The following were awarded:
1. MontiArts, $20,000, for The Dragonfly Sculpture created by Parker McDonald chosen by a selection committee to be installed at East Bridge Park in Monticello, MN.
2. St. Cloud Technical High School, $7,535, for the “Stepping Up”, a large-scale ceramic wall installation consisting of 23 slip cast rectangular prisms created by alumni Desi Murphy and installed inside the school’s main entrance in St. Cloud, MN.

The Central Minnesota Arts Board supports collaborative and innovative arts opportunities through partnerships and financial investments in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties. The CMAB is one of eleven Regional Arts Councils designated by the Minnesota State Arts Board working with community partners to increase access to the unique cultural assets of Minnesota.