Ball State Public Media Receives Grant Award from Indiana Arts Commission to Strengthen Arts and Creativity in East Central Indiana

Topics: Ball State PBS, College of Communication Information and Media, Faculty, Muncie, Ball State PBS, Arts and Culture

September 4, 2024

Ball State Public Media (Ball State PBS and Indiana Public Radio) has been awarded a grant from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) for arts and culture programming through the Arts Project Support grant program.

Ball State Public Media plans to use the generous funding to continue producing "Pop of Culture," a new weekly radio show and podcast highlighting regional creatives, performers, artists, cultural organizations, and events. Hosted by Jennifer Blackmer, Michelle Kinsey, and Dr. Kara DuQuette, the show delves into regional arts, showcasing local events, and engages in insightful conversations with artists and curators.

From small business spotlights to in-depth art analyses, "Pop of Culture" aims to amplify the voices of Indiana's artistic community, enriching lives with the diverse spirit of the state. It airs at noon on Fridays and Saturdays and is available on Apple, NPR, and Spotify podcast platforms. In addition, the grant award will help develop a new digital video series for YouTube.

"We are grateful for the continued support of "Pop of Culture" by the Indiana Arts Commission," said Dr. Phil Hoffman, assistant dean of media and general manager of Ball State Public Media. "We are pleased that we've been able to shine a spotlight on so many creators in our region in 2024, and the backing from the Indiana Arts Commission is part of the support-along with sponsors and listeners-that make the magic happen each week."

Already recognized as an Indiana Arts Trust award winner, Ball State Public Media continues championing the arts in Indiana through various programming, offering audiences a unique and immersive arts and culture experience.

"All across Indiana, we have seen the positive impact that investing in arts and creativity has on quality of life," said Anne Penny Valentine, chair of the Indiana Arts Commission. "Each of the projects and organizations selected to receive funding are doing exceptional creative work in and for Hoosier communities. The Commission is excited and honored to support the work these organizations are doing to engage the public, develop their communities, and encourage creativity across our state."

For more information about Ball State Public Media and its programming, visit ballstatepbs.org and indianapublicradio.org.