Dear Artists, Friends and Colleagues,

In 1997, The Sam and Adele Golden Foundation for the Arts, Inc. was formed by family members to serve as a lasting tribute to Sam and Adele Golden, the founders of Golden Artist Colors, Inc.   Forming the Golden Foundation was also a way to give back and to recognize professional artists for their innovative uses of paint, and to foster the creative process by supporting cultural organizations.  During the past ten years, awards totaling more than $100,000 have been granted to artists in recognition of their work and to cultural organizations for their commitment and capacity to provide services for career artists. 

In keeping with our mission, to be a meaningful resource for the professional visual artist, the family members are envisioning a new way to continue supporting artists. In response to a deepening artist need, a beautiful quiet country setting consisting of 140 acres has been purchased by the Golden’s for an artist residency.  The historic barn will be converted into artist’s studios and workspace.  What makes this residency program unique is its close proximity to Golden Artist Colors, Inc.  Golden Artist Colors, Inc. has a long proactive history of providing technical assistance to individual artists working in paint.  Their technical expertise and scientific research is recognized all over the world.   The artist workspace is located just a few steps (across the road) from the factory.  This location and partnership distinguishes the artist workspace from other residency programs and will provide the artist with freedom for artistic experimentation and exploration with the highly technical expertise available at Golden Artist Colors, Inc.

We have chartered our course and are ready to direct our focus on the artist and the continuation of the artist’s creative process.  We have a proven history of dedication and direct financial support to artists and will continue awarding grants by establishing an annual Golden Foundation Fellowship.   This will be accomplished by directing our funding to a nationally recognized institution dedicated to supporting visual artists.

We value the many wonderful connections we have made with artists and cultural organizations through the past ten years.  It has been our privilege to support and encourage you and once again we extend our appreciation for the valuable work you do.  As in the past, the Golden Foundation will serve as a resource and continue to assist and support the work of individuals within the profession of the visual arts and cultural organizations whose purpose is to promote and support the visual arts.

As always, we welcome comments from you our colleagues.  Your thoughts and feedback during this time of transition are so important to us.  Our director, Lucy Funke is available to talk to you about the Foundation’s decision and to answer any questions you might have.  She can be reached at info@goldenfoundation.org or (607) 847-8158.