Eva Steinmetz is co-creator of “The Boy Project,” a theater piece in which Philadelphia boys ages 12–15 imagine their futures as men. Eva is based in Philadelphia and has been a member of Fractured Atlas since November 2017. “The Boy Project” currently has a fundraising campaign running on our crowdfunding site, Fundraising by Fractured Atlas.
How has Fractured Atlas benefitted your artistic practice and goals?
As a fiscally-sponsored project, I’ve been able to apply for grants and fellowships that wouldn’t otherwise have been available to me, which feels like a big deal in the world of scrappy self-producing.
How has Fractured Atlas benefitted your income generation or fundraising efforts?
In 2017 we made a piece for under $1000. This year, we’ve received over $20,000 in funding for a project (which is still not much in the world of theater). The most substantial benefit is that we’re finally able to pay the artists a modest fee for their work.
What specific Fractured Atlas services/programs have you used?
I’ve used Fundraising By Fractured Atlas and received grant application guidance.
What has been one of your biggest challenges as an artist and how did you push through it
As a collaborative artist, the greatest challenges almost always seem to be about personality and humanity — differing experiences, interests, and priorities coming together in an attempt to unify toward a shared goal. Time management can also be a big challenge (why do emails take up so many hours of the day?).
Do you have any upcoming events that people should know about?
The rest of this year is really about project development. But in 2020 people should definitely keep eyes out for both “Sad Boys in Harpy Land” and “The Boy Project” at FringeArts in Philadelphia!
What would you consider some of your biggest accomplishments?
Directing and self-producing “Shuttlefish” was a joyful and healing process, which feels like an immense accomplishment. I’ve taken lessons from that experience into every project since. “The Appointment” was another piece that I’d consider a big accomplishment. I feel super lucky to have directed it.
Why do you think artists and organizations should become members of Fractured Atlas?
I hate to be so un-romantic but it really is all about money and fundraising. Artists and organizations should become members if they’re looking to boost their practice of applying for grants or if they need fiscal sponsorship in order to accept tax-deductible donations.
What words of wisdom do you have for other artists aspiring to bring their creative projects to life?
Trust your gut!
You can learn more about Eva and “The Boy Project” on Instagram at @believa_me and www.nellbangjensen.com.
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