Arts, humanities grants benefit area projects

AUGUSTA – A total of $30,755 was awarded by the Maine Humanities Council in grants to nonprofit organizations during May and June.

Nine of the 26 grants were awarded jointly with the Maine Arts Commission to fund projects that combine the arts and humanities.

Grant amounts ranged from $275 to $3,000. The funds are provided by the New Century Community Program. Local awards include:

. Northeast Historic Film, Bucksport. “Star Qualities: It’s Still It:” Northeast Silent Film Festival, $2,500. The film festival is aimed at developing public understanding of the history of early 20th century motion picture stars and their impact on cultural history.

. Food and Medicine, Brewer. Labor Heritage Mural Project, $1,500, awarded jointly with the Maine Arts Commission. The community project will create three murals depicting the history and current status of labor in Greater Bangor. The murals, designed by local artists, will be accompanied by written narratives.