gaudanse awarded $35,000 grant from New York State Council on the Arts

gaudanse, a New York- and New Orleans-based nonprofit interdisciplinary dance organization, has received a $35,000 grant from the New York State Council on the Arts to support arts and culture programming.

The grant is part of a broader statewide investment totaling $80.9 million in fiscal year 2026 awarded by NYSCA to arts and culture nonprofits across all 10 regions of New York. The funding supports a historic number of artists and organizations statewide.

“New York’s arts and culture sector is a cornerstone of the state’s identity, and we’re making bold investments to ensure it remains strong,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “These grants will lift up artists and organizations in every region, fueling local economies and expanding access to the arts.”

NYSCA Executive Director Erika Mallin said the funding represents a long-term investment in New York’s creative future. “These grants will serve artists and organizations in every region and county, fueling our economy and serving our communities,” she said. “Congratulations to gaudanse and thank you for your perseverance, your creativity, and your tireless service to New York State.”

NYSCA Chair Patrick Willingham also praised this year’s recipients, citing the support of state leadership and the efforts of council staff and panelists in delivering critical funding across the state.

Founded in 2020 by Imani Gaudin, gaudanse (Gaudanse, Inc.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit interdisciplinary dance production organization rooted between New York City and New Orleans. The organization creates immersive performance experiences that blend dance, performance art, music, film, culinary arts and visual arts.

Through accessible programs, mentorship, workshops and performances, gaudanse focuses on empowering early-career artists, particularly those from marginalized and underserved communities. Its work emphasizes wellness-centered, sustainable creative practices that support both personal and professional growth.

The New York State Council on the Arts was created in 1960 and is part of the state’s Executive Branch. The agency is expected to award more than $161 million in funding during FY 2026 to support arts recovery and expansion statewide.

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