RAC Invests in TechArtista’s Curator‑in‑Residence and Sponsored Projects

Written By Matt Menietti

Four projects receive a combined $30,000 to power local arts programming

The TechArtista Foundation has been awarded $8,000 for its Curator‑in‑Residence program by the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis (RAC). In its 2025 cycle, RAC invested $3,723,212 in organizations across St. Louis City and County—including $441,212 in Program Support Grants to 52 nonprofits—and, for the second consecutive year, selected TechArtista for funding.

Launched to elevate underrepresented voices, the TechArtista Foundation’s NextGen Curator‑in‑Residence program provides a paid, part‑time, year‑long placement that immerses an emerging curator in St. Louis’s vibrant arts ecosystem. Hosted within TechArtista’s dynamic coworking spaces, the residency provides:

  • Three gallery exhibitions curated over twelve months, each spotlighting local and regional artists and designed to foster dialogue, innovation, and community engagement

  • A competitive stipend and resources to underwrite project expenses

  • Access to mentorship from seasoned museum and gallery professionals

  • Collaborative programming with coworking members and community partners, including artist talks, workshops, and pop‑up events

By embedding the curator within a multidisciplinary workspace, the program bridges creative and business communities, amplifying diverse artistic perspectives and creating equitable pathways for emerging talent.

In addition to the NextGen Curator‑in‑Residence award, three of the TechArtista Foundation’s fiscally-sponsored projects also received grants to cover key artistic and operational expenses:

  • Paint Louis ($8,000): Covering paint supplies for the annual city‑wide mural and street‑art festival

  • H.I Space ($8,000): Covering artist exchange program and public exhibition costs

  • Cicadian Rhythms ($6,000): Covering post‑production expenses for a short documentary film

“RAC’s continued support underscores the value of elevating diverse curatorial voices in St. Louis,” said Matt Menietti, Executive Director of the TechArtista Foundation. “These funds will enable dynamic exhibitions and essential resources for our sponsored projects, strengthening connections between artists and audiences.”

About the Regional Arts Commission
Since 1985, the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis has been the region’s primary public arts funder—awarding nearly $120 million to date through hotel and motel tax revenues. In 2025 alone, RAC distributed $3.7 million across St. Louis City and County, supporting individual artists, nonprofits, and community‑based programs that enrich the cultural life of the region.

About the TechArtista Foundation
The TechArtista Foundation creates space for St. Louis artists and entrepreneurs by providing resources and cultivating community. As the nonprofit arm of the TechArtista coworking network, the Foundation offers resources, residencies, and curated programs designed to enrich the region’s cultural and economic landscape.

Matt Menietti