Jazz Giants
Arts and Culture
Art and artists are essential to human connection.
Culture connects us. It helps us see the world from different perspectives, shapes our beliefs, and nourishes our souls. The work of performing, visual, and literary artists can stir us individually and inspire audiences collectively—moving our society toward optimism, compassion, empathy, and understanding. Mellon’s Arts and Culture grants support the work of institutions that protect and sustain our country’s vital creative ecosystem.
Who we support
Through grants to eligible recipients, we support:
- Cultural organizations that are driving models of visionary leadership.
- Institutions, collectives, and initiatives that are creating new forms of expression
- Artistic archives that preserve or restore important work.
- Research that can help us understand and create a more viable creative sector.
Our staff seek out and get to know innovative organizations, scholars, and creators before inviting them to submit a proposal for funding. Most Mellon grants are made through these invitations.
Grantmaking in focus
Deana Haggag
Program Director, Arts & Culture
Program Director, Arts & Culture
“We remain deeply committed to the performing, visual, and literary arts and to supporting those who believe in the stirring and singular power of culture to deepen the meaning of our lives.”
Arts and Culture
Frontera Culture Fund
January 12, 2026
PBS NewsHour: Literary Arts Fund created to rekindle a love for reading
Voice
The State of Nonprofit Theater in America Invites New Possibilities
Read the essay Our grantmaking is a catalyst for expression and ideas.
About our grantmaking process