The Texas Commission on the Arts has announced that the deadline to apply for the Texas Young Masters Program is November 1st. The program, designed to support the creativity and projects of students, offers a grant of $5,000 for up to two years to help further their art education.

To be eligible for the grant, students must be in grades 8-11 or the homeschool equivalent and be participating in a school or summer program or a specialized course aimed at enhancing their artistic skills. The selection process for the Young Masters Program takes into account three criteria: artistic quality, capability, and impact.

Artistic quality makes up 50% of the overall evaluation, assessing the student's high level of skill in their chosen field. Capability accounts for 25% of the judging scale, considering whether the student has the necessary resources to continue their artistic pursuits. Lastly, the impact of the grant is also taken into consideration to ensure that it will truly help the student progress towards their goals.

The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA), led by Executive Director Gary Gibbs, aims to support and nurture the creativity of Texans and beyond. Their mission, as stated on their website, is to "advance our state economically and culturally by investing in a creative Texas."

The Young Masters Program is just one of the initiatives undertaken by the TCA to promote the arts in Texas. By offering financial support to young artists, the program encourages the growth and development of artistic talent in the state.

As the deadline approaches on November 1st, students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their applications for the Young Masters Program. This is an opportunity to receive funding that can help them pursue their artistic education and further their artistic abilities.

The Texas Commission on the Arts continues to strive towards their mission of fostering a creative Texas by providing resources, programs, and sustainability efforts to support the art community.