Harvardwood is pleased to announce the Mia and David Alpert Harvardwood Artist Launch Fellowship for graduating seniors or recent Harvard alumni working or seeking to work in the arts, media, and entertainment fields. The multiyear gift, generously donated by Harvardwood Co-Founder Mia Riverton Alpert ’99 and her husband, producer and media entrepreneur David Alpert ‘97, includes a $24,000 grant, awarded annually, to support one recent graduate from the College for one year as they pursue their artistic projects. Each Alpert Harvardwood Fellow will also be paired with a mentor in their field of interest to help guide their creative endeavors and will receive additional assistance through Harvardwood.
The Harvardwood Artist Launch Fellowship will be awarded annually to a different artist, with the inaugural term running from June 1, 2022 through May 31, 2023. Current seniors at Harvard College (class of 2022) as well as College alumni from the classes of 2021 and 2020 are eligible to apply. Grant funds can be used at the grantee’s discretion. The purpose of the funds is to provide the opportunity for an individual to choose the pursuit of artistic endeavors without consideration of financial need for the duration of the grant period. There is no restriction on the artistic field; musicians, dancers, visual artists, actors, writers, filmmakers and artists/creators in all disciplines are encouraged to apply.
“Creating more equitable access to careers in the arts has been a lifelong passion for us and was a motivating force behind Harvardwood’s founding 22 years ago. David and I are honored to support the next generation of emerging Harvard artists as they begin their professional journeys,” said Mia Riverton Alpert.
Harvardwood President Allison Kiessling said, "We have long known that to have a greater impact we need to invest more deeply in individual artists. This fellowship will allow Harvardwood to amplify our efforts to promote diversity, equity and the positive impact of new voices in the arts. We are incredibly grateful for the Alperts’ generosity."
Eligibility
To apply, individuals must be current Harvard College seniors or have graduated from Harvard College within the past two years (i.e. class of 2020, 2021 or 2022), complete the application form, provide a resume, a work sample or portfolio, an introductory video, an artist statement (in written, audio or video format), a letter of recommendation, a creative plan with an overview of envisioned projects to be completed or substantially developed during the term of the Fellowship, and a projected budget for the term of the Fellowship. The finalist round will include a video interview. Individuals who have previously been beneficiaries of Harvardwood grants or scholarships or have participated in Harvardwood programs are eligible if they meet the other terms of eligibility.
Applications will be accepted beginning October 4th, 2021 and are due by January 10, 2022, with the grant announcement to be made by March 1, 2022. Funds will be distributed monthly to the inaugural Alpert Harvardwood Fellow beginning on June 1, 2022 and ending by May 31, 2023.
Harvardwood will host two virtual informational sessions on Oct 4, 2021, 12PM PT and Nov 10, 2021, 3pm PT to answer any questions about the application process.