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From: marks@yogi.DEC
Newsgroups: net.invest
Subject: Investing in Artists
Message-ID: <1294@decwrl.UUCP>
Date: Wed, 6-Nov-85 10:36:14 EST
Article-I.D.: decwrl.1294
Posted: Wed Nov  6 10:36:14 1985
Date-Received: Fri, 8-Nov-85 21:02:45 EST
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I have no idea how off the wall this notion is, but:  I have a friend
who is a sculptor, a graduate of a reputable art college, who would like
to open up his own studio.  Like most artists, this person has 
"very little"
working capital (in other words, he is penniless).  The guy is good, very
good.  He has been exhibited.  He has sold.  However, after looking into
grants from the public sector, he discovered the lion's share of them are
for non-profit arts groups, like museums, collaboratives, schools, etc.
There is very little money available for individuals.

My question is this:  are there organizations that coordinate the matching
up of artists with backers?  Does such a thing exist?  Or does one luck into
it merely by word of mouth and being in the right place at the right
time?  Are there any institutions that seek out such investment in artists,
or is there any place a person like this can start?  He has tried for a bank
loan, but except for his equipment there is no collateral, and banks tend
to take him not too seriously.

Any information would be much appreciated.  Thanks.

R.M.