MARTIN J. BERGIN, 1939-2020
We are saddened to learn that cowboy poet and master saddlemaker Martin J. Bergin, of Overland, Mo., passed away on September 24, 2020. His funeral services are scheduled for Thursday, October 1, 2020 with Ortmann’s…
Gladys Caines Coggswell
In 1988, Gladys Coggswell first entered MFAP’s Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program as apprentice in Jazz and Blues Gospel singing to Mae Wheeler, also known as “Lady Jazz,” of St. Louis. As her reputation as a…
BLACKSMITHING IN MISSOURI BY LISA L. HIGGINS
ViewWho We Are
The Missouri Folk Arts Program identifies, documents, and promotes the folk and traditional arts in our state. MFAP staff coordinates apprenticeship teams each year; produces workshops for community scholars (local cultural experts and volunteers); co-produces folk arts events around the state, and works with local and regional arts organizations to further their missions.
Educational Programs
Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program
Funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Missouri Arts Council, Missouri’s Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program pairs master folk artists with apprentices to sustain traditions for future generations.
Community Scholars Network
MFAP is bolstering its statewide advisory network through the Community Scholars Network with grant funding from the Missouri Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts. Missouri Community Scholars Network members are local experts who document, promote, and sh...
Grants
On behalf of the Missouri Arts Council, MFAP also manages Folk Arts Grants, which are awarded to Missouri-based, tax-exempt, not-for-profit organizations to sustain and showcase folk and traditional arts in local communities. Funded projects include concerts, festivals, workshops, exhibitions, and other artistic events.