Photo Credit: The Woodlands Arts CouncilArt & Culture
The Woodlands Arts Council & Pavilion award over $75K in Arts Microgrants
The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC), in partnership with The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (CWMP), proudly announces the ongoing impact of the 2024–2025 Microgrant Program. More than $75,000 was awarded to 28 schools and nonprofit organizations across The Woodlands and Montgomery County, enriching students’ lives and expanding access to the arts throughout the community.
With support for projects in the performing arts, visual arts, and creative programming, the Microgrant Program supports initiatives at elementary, intermediate, and high schools, as well as at local arts nonprofits, empowering educators, artists, students, and organizations across the region. These microgrants reflect TWAC’s ongoing mission to Make Art Matter by fostering creativity, promoting equity in arts access, and bringing meaningful cultural experiences to individuals of all ages.
The Dr. David Gottlieb Education Microgrant from TWAC benefited 15 arts programs in schools and organizations, including Birnham Woods Elementary and the Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands. At Birnham Woods Elementary, students were encouraged to explore textile art through knitting and latch-hook rug design. These hands-on projects not only foster creativity but also develop patience, fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical fluency. “There are many benefits children experience from textile art,” said Art Teacher Lisa Wooldridge. “It teaches patience, develops fine motor skills, reduces anxiety, improves memory, and creates a real-world skill.”
The Healing Art (HEART) and Creative Reflections Program at Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands, offers free, guided art therapy sessions to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. With the support of this microgrant, personalized art supply kits, a new digital gallery, and expanded resources for the 2025 Creative Expressions Exhibition will enable more participants to reflect, heal, and connect through artistic expression.
The Performing Arts Microgrant Program, in partnership with The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, provided grants to 13 schools, including Moorhead Junior High and Stewart Elementary. The innovative Electric Orchestra at Moorhead Junior High was equipped with wood electric violins, amps, and wireless systems. Students now perform a dynamic range of music—from Bach to Billie Eilish—while developing their own sound, learning by ear, and pushing creative boundaries.
“The electric orchestra program has evolved from a ‘show and tell’ event to a hands-on, immersive experience,” said Orchestra Teacher Tarvia Blackshear. “It gives students an avenue for creativity and expression that many did not even know existed.” This marks Moorhead’s third consecutive year receiving microgrant support, totaling $15,000 in funding to date from both TWAC and CWMP, making it an excellent example of two community non-profits supporting an incredible program in our community.
At Stewart Elementary, only one of three music teachers had access to a full classroom set of district-standard instruments. With microgrant funding, all three classrooms are now fully equipped, ensuring every K-4 student receives consistent, high-quality instruction in rhythm, beat, and foundational music skills. This investment supports student readiness for future participation in choir, band, orchestra, or visual arts programs.“It’s inspiring to meet the educators and see their dedication and enthusiasm in providing every child with the chance to experience music through these grants,” shared Nancy Charbonneau, TWAC Board Director.
To learn more about these and other stories, visit: https://www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/p/programs/microgrants
The next application cycle for the Microgrant Program will open September 5 – October 6, 2026. For more information on eligibility and submission requirements, visit: www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/p/programs/microgrants
Explore more ways TWAC is making art matter in Montgomery County: www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/p/programs
Source: The Woodlands Arts Council
