WORN is proud to announce our participation as designated allocators for this year’s Ontario Arts Council Writers’ Reserve Program.

What is the OAC Writers’ Reserve?
This is a program to assist professional writers in the creation of new work.

What kinds of projects does the WR fund?
The program funds the research, creation and development of writing projects intended for professional print or online publication.

What does it mean for WORN to be an allocator?
It means we have the honour of being able to help financially support writers developing interesting and diverse content in the field of fashion — especially as it pertains to history, culture and the broader meanings of clothing and adornment. (We’re particularly interested in fashion where it dissects with art, feminism, gender and cultural identity.) We think this is a really important opportunity to encourage the creation of smart fashion writing!

Who can apply?
Canadian citizenship and Ontario residency are required and applicants must be deemed professional artists. But it’s not nearly as intimidating as it sounds! Just visit the OAC website for a list of all allocators and read the complete guidelines for 2011/2012. You can download info and applications on the OAC site. You’ll also find phone and email contact information.

What are my deadlines?
This program runs from September 1, 2011 to January 31, 2012. But the grant is given on a rolling basis. In other words, apply early or there may be no more grants to be awarded no matter how awesome your proposal is.

Got more questions?
Check out a list of FAQs here. And the Ontario Arts Council is chock-a-block with friendly and helpful people so don’t be afraid to ask them questions.

WORN is happy to answer your questions, too. Just email your questions to our Managing Editor, Gwendolen Stegelmann, at g@wornjournal.com.

THEN FOR PETE’S SAKE, START WRITING!

photography by Paul Dorsey, November 1937 (screen writer Niven Busch in his office)