The Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants, administered by the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) in partnership with the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation, provide financial assistance to artists facing unexpected medical emergencies. These grants offer one-time funding of up to $5,000 to support artists in the visual arts, film, video, electronic, digital arts, and choreography who are in financial need due to recent medical, dental, or mental health emergencies. The program is designed specifically for generative artists, meaning those who create their own independent work and have opportunities for the public to experience that work.

The primary purpose of the Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants is to alleviate the financial burden associated with unexpected medical expenses that can hinder an artist's ability to continue their creative practice. The grants aim to support artists who demonstrate a commitment to their art form and have a history of public engagement with their work. Eligible expenses include medical provider bills, diagnostic tests, therapy sessions, prescription medications, emergency dental work, and transportation costs related to medical appointments.

To be eligible for the grant, applicants must meet specific criteria. They must be generative artists aged 21 or older, residing in the United States, the District of Columbia, a Tribal Nation, or a U.S. Territory. Additionally, their adjusted gross income must not exceed $75,000 for individuals or $150,000 for joint filers, averaged over the last two federal tax returns. The medical emergency must have occurred within the last six months, and applicants must not have received a Rauschenberg Medical or Dancer Emergency Grant previously or be enrolled in any degree-seeking program.

The application process requires artists to demonstrate their ongoing activity in their artistic discipline over the past five years, with multiple public opportunities to experience their work. This can include exhibitions, screenings, performances, or community projects. The program does not accept portfolios or work samples, and reduced activity during the pandemic is considered acceptable. Emergencies eligible for funding must be one-time, unexpected events that significantly impact the artist's health and ability to work.

Applications for the Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants must be submitted by the deadline of October 1, 2024. Interested applicants can find more information and access the application through the NYFA website. The evaluation of applications will be based on the eligibility criteria outlined, including the nature of the emergency and the applicant's artistic commitment.

The Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants are an important resource for artists facing unforeseen medical challenges, providing crucial financial support to help them navigate their health issues while continuing their creative endeavors. Artists who meet the eligibility requirements and are in need of assistance are encouraged to apply before the deadline. For further inquiries, applicants can contact NYFA directly via email or phone.