Each spring, Olympia Artspace Alliance (OAA) awards a new round of Space Grants to support artists throughout Thurston County.

As a dedicated advocate for our local creative community, OAA understands that having access to affordable, functional space is essential for artists to create, collaborate, and thrive. Whether it's a studio, rehearsal space, or the costs of maintaining a creative workspace, these grants help remove barriers so artists can focus on what they do best.

About the Space Grants

This year, OAA awarded 10 Space Grants, each valued at $500, to help artists cover essential space-related expenses, including:

• Studio or living rent

• Rehearsal space

• Storage

• Utilities and repairs

• ADA accommodations

• Other space-related costs

Why This Matters

Artists strengthen our communities through creativity, connection, and cultural expression. By helping artists maintain safe, accessible, and sustainable creative spaces, OAA is investing in the long-term vitality of Thurston County's arts community.

Every grant represents more than financial assistance—it's an investment in the people who enrich our region through music, visual arts, theater, writing, dance, and countless other creative pursuits.

Growing the Program

The Space Grants program was originally launched in 2020 to help artists continue their work during the challenges of the pandemic. Since then, the program has continued to grow and evolve.

Thanks to a generous gift from the Freas Foundation, a former arts-focused organization, OAA will be able to continue awarding Space Grants for at least the next five years.

We are deeply grateful to the Freas Foundation and to all of our funding partners whose generosity helps strengthen our local arts ecosystem and ensures artists have the resources they need to succeed.