Rep. Sykes Secures $20,000 in Federal Arts Funding for Akron Performance Series

July 28, 2026 Rep. Sykes Secures $20,000 in Federal Arts Funding for Akron Performance Series AKRON, OHIO — Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the National Endowment for the Arts has awarded $20,000 to Art Resources Transformations to support a multidisciplinary performance series. The grant, awarded through the NEA’s Grants for Arts Projects program in the Presenting & Multidisciplinary Works category, will fund a series presented by Curated Storefront featuring performances by multidisciplinary artist Josh Azzarella. The series will include an installation that uses video cameras and custom software to translate light and the movements of musicians and audience members into unique, real-time audio outputs, alongside collaborations with jazz artist Theron Brown and live soundtracks generated for silent films. “This is a wonderful opportunity for people throughout our community to celebrate local talented artists,” said Rep. Sykes. “The arts help make our community more vibrant and I look forward to how this funding helps improve our district.” “The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support opportunities across the country for Americans to experience and participate in the arts,” said Chairman Mary Anne Carter of the National Endowment for the Arts . “As we celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary this year, it is a moment to recognize the important role the arts continue to play in our lives, communities, and heritage.” Print Email Share Tweet