Scholarship Program
About
The Center for Contemporary Art believes that the arts should be accessible to all. In our efforts to fulfill this belief, and to attract and engage diverse students and artists, The Center offers three scholarship opportunities to make our classes and workshops available to those who could not otherwise afford them including: our youth scholarships, the Naomi Neirenberg Scholarship in ceramics, and a general scholarship.
The Center’s Scholarships are sustained by the generous donations of our members, students, and community. If you are interested in donating to the scholarship program please contact Leigh Zona, Communications & Development Manager at [email protected]
Youth Scholarship Fund
The Youth Scholarship Fund was established in 2019 and provides scholarships to youth ages 5-15 who attend public school and who reside in Somerset County. All are welcome to apply using the application form. People are also welcome to suggest and nominate students who they believe have economic need and will benefit from art instruction. Youth scholarships cover full tuition and materials costs for one class, camp, or workshop. Once allocated, scholarship recipients are asked to contribute a suggested $50 registration fee. If you are offered the scholarship and this amount is prohibitive to you please contact The Center or email Ged Ong, Director of Education Programs and Operations at [email protected]. Nominations for youth scholarships can be sent to Ged Ong.
Naomi Nierenberg Scholarship Fund
The Naomi Nierenberg Scholarship Fund was named for and established in 2021 with a generous bequest from one of The Center’s beloved ceramics students. This scholarship is offered to women students who wish to study ceramics and covers the cost of tuition and lab fees for one class or workshop. Scholarship includes one 25lb bag of brown or white stoneware clay. Recipients are responsible for purchase of additional clay from The Center. Wheelchair accessible pottery wheel is available upon request.
General Scholarship Fund
Youth and General Scholarship Funds are open to all regardless of race, gender, sexual identity, ability, religion, or income. The Naomi Nierenberg Scholarship Fund is allocated to women artists regardless of race, ability, religion, or income.
Selection Process
The Center’s Scholarship Committee reviews each application and makes final award selections. The Scholarship Committee is composed of select administrative staff and Trustees. Strong applications will reflect the following criteria:
- Demonstrated curiosity, potential, or passion for artistic, self expression
- Interest in building community through the arts
- Financial need
Biannual Scholarship Deadlines
- July 1
- December 1
Applicants are eligible for one scholarship per year. Applicants will be notified of award decisions within 30 days of the deadline. The Center’s Program staff will be in touch with scholarship recipients to complete course registrations. Once awarded, scholarships can be used for up to one calendar year.
Questions or need help with the application? Contact Ged Ong, Director of Education Programs and Operations at [email protected] or 908-234-2345 Ext. 102.