As the most diverse city in the U.S., Houston is filled with creative individuals and cultural experiences. Recently, through Let Creativity Happen, the City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) awarded 39 individuals and nonprofit organizations $97,000 in grants for specific programs that amplify artistic creativity and innovation in the city.

Let Creativity Happen, a competitive grant program that is administered by the Houston Arts Alliance (HAA), aims to encourage artists and organizations to take creative risks that wouldn’t qualify for more traditional funding opportunities.  

“Awards support innovative ideas that redefine artistic boundaries, reshape the conversation about art and art experiences, and/or establish unique opportunities to experience art,” according to a press release by the City of Houston.

This program opens three times a year and is funded by a portion of the city’s Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT).

“Every round of this competitive grant program highlights the vibrancy of Houston’s cultural community,” said Necole S. Irvin, MOCA Director, in the press release.

First Round Recipients

The first round of awards went to a variety of individuals and organizations including, Dance Afrikana, Scriptwriters Houston, and Space City Medievalism.

Also awarded a grant was Group Acorde who will present InWorks, which is a “series of intimate experimental works that challenge two musicians and two dancers to communicate through set and improvisational material live in the moment.”

Through the series, the artists will communicate with each other using contemporary choreography and music from instruments like the cello and upright bass.

To see full list of award winners visit 2024 Grantees — Houston Arts Alliance 

Written by Norma Salcedo 

Photo courtsey of Dance Afrikana