We understand the barriers of entry to the arts and want encourage everyone to develop their creativity and skills. Some of those barriers are financial, and some of those barriers are tied other systems of white, patriarchal, hetero-normative oppression. We are raising funds in the community so that we can offer a number of Inclusivity Grants and Financial Scholarships for classes or monthly studio access. If you would like to apply for a grant or a scholarship to take a class or become a member for free or at a discounted rate, please click below!
Inclusivity GrantThe Inclusivity Grant is for individuals from communities that are historically underrepresented and under-resourced in the arts to receive a discounted or free class or studio membership. My intention in offering this grant is to demonstrate our commitment to welcoming and supporting people from communities that may have felt that this was not a place for them. Building a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable space for people from all backgrounds to come together, make connections, and expand their world view through the shared studio experience of playing with clay is one of the core missions of Burnish. In my white privileged ignorance I had thought that having a diverse student and member population would just happen naturally by making Burnish a fun place to be. As I learn about systemic racism and other barriers to inclusivity the more I realize it does not happen on its own. I have so much more to learn and do! But I offer this as a small first step while acknowledging there is much more work to do.
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Financial ScholarshipWe are raising funds in the community to provide financial support to anyone experiencing a financial hardship. If you would like to apply for funding please click below!
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Participate in growing the community at Burnish
Click below to donate to the Inclusivity Grant and Financial Scholarship Fund. Creating these programs I feel is a critical step, but I cannot do it alone. Please consider donating to the Fund to help build a healthy and creative community. For right now I am asking for one-time donations, but will be working towards other ongoing fundraising programs for next year to ensure these are sustainable offerings. Anyone local to Bellingham who donates more than $20 can come to the studio to select one piece of pottery from the designated area in the gallery as a thank you for your participation and support.