In a move that offers hope and excitement, the Maryland State Arts Council has awarded a 16% increase in state arts funding for fiscal 2014. They just awarded close to $13 million to local arts organizations which will support 254 arts organizations and programs. It will also assist arts councils in Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City.
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Association Inc. received $1.79 million, Center Stage received $489,657 and Walters Art Museum received $894,208. The Maryland State Arts Council budget was restored to its pre-recession levels and Governor Martin O’Malley approved of these grants. Many smaller artists and organizations will benefit from this money as well.

Certainly an indication that things are looking up for the arts in Maryland in the coming year.