About the Program
The Ara Jo Memorial Fund (AJMF) supports local, community-based artists and projects that benefit the East Bay and carry on Ara Christina Jo’s legacy and passion for alternative artistic expression and inclusive programming. Established in 2018 by Rock Paper Scissors Collective (RPSC) in close collaboration with Ara's family, AJMF was made possible thanks to the generous donations from family and friends honoring Ara in the aftermath of the 2016 Ghost Ship Fire, which tragically cut her life and the lives of thirty-five other victims all too short.
East Bay artists of all ages and levels of experience are strongly encouraged to apply. As a visual artist, graphic designer, curator, and musician, Ara linked many of the diverse communities in the Bay Area. She personified pure, unconditional love, supporting and encouraging those around her however she could. We hope to keep Ara's collaborative energy and caring spirit alive by supporting projects that align with her life's pursuits.
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About this Cycle
For 2024, AJMF is offering a rolling application cycle. In the past, AJMF has funded drawing, illustration, painting, printmaking, zine, video, and curation projects by individual artists and groups, as well as youth-focused and all-ages arts education projects. Please do not feel limited to these areas. We would love to fund projects realized through textiles, public art, performance, virtual platforms, and other non-traditional media and approaches.
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Application Criteria- Individual artists and artist groups living or working primarily in Oakland, Emeryville, and Berkeley are eligible to apply.
- Artists who are youth, low-income, and/or belong to marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
- The maximum project funding amount is $500. An itemized budget of the proposed project's expenses is required. Applications submitted without a budget will not be considered.
AJMF project funds may be used for:- Material expenses
- Production expenses, such as hiring a business or another person with a specialized skill necessary for the realization of your proposed project (e.g. professional printing, audio/video editing, etc.)
- Presentation expenses, such as supplies needed for an exhibition, performance, or other event
- Stipend for the instructor of a class, workshop, or other creative program offered to the public free of charge
AJMF project funds may not be used for: - Recurring rent
- Conference, booth, or tabling fees
- Food and beverage expenses (unless central to a project or public program, then these are considered material expenses)
- Travel, transportation, and lodging expenses
- Paying yourself, unless it is an instructor stipend as described above
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Application Timeline- Opening date: February 1, 2024
- Closing date: The application will remain open until the available funding has been allocated.
- Applications will be reviewed and selected on a rolling basis, at least on a bi-monthly basis.
- All funded projects must be completed within six months of the date funds are received. Keep this in mind as you develop and describe your project timeline.
- An expense report with copies of receipts and project documentation (photos, etc.) will be due within a month of project completion.
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About Rock Paper Scissors Collective
Ara Jo Memorial Fund is administered by a committee of Rock Paper Scissors Collective, of which Ara was a member for many years. RPSC is a member-directed, all volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that fosters creativity and collaboration in order to strengthen local communities, encourage sustainable practices, and explore alternative models. We promote the sharing of ideas, skills, and resources through the celebration of art, craft, education, and performance. For more information, visit
www.rpscollective.org 