The Destina Foundation's Generous Gift Establishes Tanning Award for Young Artists and Writers

The Launch of a New Era for Aspiring Artists

In a groundbreaking move for young creatives, the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers has announced a monumental $500,000 donation from The Destina Foundation. This generous contribution is designed to fund the newly established Dorothea Tanning Gold Medal Portfolio Award, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. As the first endowed award fully named in honor of an artist, it embodies the spirit of creativity and independence championed by the renowned artist and writer, Dorothea Tanning.

This endowment exemplifies a dedication to nurturing young talents and providing necessary support as they navigate the challenging world of art and writing. Annually, the Tanning Award will honor a selected recipient through a nationwide competition, emphasizing originality, skill, and personal artistic voice or vision. Winners of the prestigious Gold Medal Portfolio Awards will now include this exceptional accolade, which represents the highest national honor within the program offered to high school seniors.

The financial support tied to the Tanning Award, underwritten by the Destina Foundation Endowment Fund, includes a scholarship currently valued at $12,500, alongside additional program support for the recipient. This year, the inaugural winner of the award will be announced on March 26, in conjunction with the national medalists for the 2025 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

Christopher Wisniewski, Executive Director of the Alliance, expressed immense gratitude towards The Destina Foundation for their commitment to fostering creative potential among today's youth. He emphasized how crucial such partnerships are in propelling the organization’s mission forward: "This generous endowment is a landmark moment for the Alliance, enabling us to further support the journeys of even more young creatives in the years ahead."

Tanning's legacy as an artist is characterized by her experimental approach across various mediums, merging visual art with literature. This new award not only recognizes the chosen recipients but also honors Tanning's lifelong dedication to exploring the limits of creativity, as described by Pamela S. Johnson, President of The Destina Foundation. “An award that recognizes both the accomplishments and potential of teenage artists and writers celebrates Dorothea Tanning's lifetime of creativity, experimentation, and generosity,” said Johnson.

For many aspiring young artists and writers, such accolades serve as pivotal moments in their educational and creative journeys, providing not just recognition but the financial means to pursue their art. The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers remains dedicated to uplifting the voices of the next generation through various initiatives, including the highly regarded Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

In addition to the Tanning Award, the Alliance operates numerous programs aimed at supporting young talent and their educators. This includes the National Student Poets Program and scholarships tailored for summer experiences. Each year, the organization witnesses over 100,000 young individuals participating in the program across 28 unique categories, showcasing diverse talent and artistry.

Dorothea Tanning (1910-2012), whose remarkable contributions to both visual arts and literature resonate strongly today, is celebrated not just in name through this award but also in spirit. Born in Illinois, Tanning found her footing within New York's vibrant art scene in the 1940s, and her influence continues to inspire generations of creative individuals.

The collaboration between The Destina Foundation and the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers symbolizes a shared commitment to fostering artistic expression, creativity, and an appreciation for the arts. As this new chapter unfolds with the introduction of the Dorothea Tanning Gold Medal Portfolio Award, it promises to leave a profound impact on aspiring artists and writers across the nation for years to come.

For more information regarding the award, the additional programs, and the legacy of Dorothea Tanning, please visit the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers official website at www.artandwriting.org or explore details on Tanning's life and work at www.dorotheatanning.org.