The Creative Excellence Scholarships program, for which the America-Israel Cultural Foundation (AICF) is best known, started in 1955. Scholarship auditions are conducted annually in the fields of Dance – ballet, and modern; Music – all orchestral instruments, voice, piano, saxophone, conducting, composition, jazz, and Arab music; Theater – acting; and Visual Arts – painting, sculpture, photography, multimedia, video, visual communications, fashion, jewelry, industrial and textile design.
Hundreds of young artists deemed to be the most excelling in their discipline are awarded scholarship support that enables them to live up to their creative potential. Artists in Music and Dance typically receive ongoing support starting around ages 10-13 and continuing support through ages 21-35, depending on the discipline.
Over 18,000 artists have benefitted from AICF’s study scholarships since the establishment of the Sharett Program. Many of the recipients are currently members of Israel’s leading orchestras, dance troupes, and theatre companies. Others present in museums and galleries in Israel and abroad, have widespread international careers, and are active in the television and film industries.
Our recipients make up a substantial segment of the cultural infrastructure in Israel today. They are active as creative artists, teachers, directors of art institutions, and artistic directors. AICF recipients contribute to the enrichment of the cultural life in Israel, influence arts education and act as cultural ambassadors who garner for Israel prestige and respect worldwide.
The Foundation’s financial support is vital for the demanding studies undertaken by the young audition takers. In addition, over the years the scholarships’ significance has been known to extend beyond their monetary value and to act as a seal of approval and recognition of the young artists’ abilities and their prospects.
The selection of recipients is driven by the goals of our mission. In collaboration with the best professionals in each field, the Foundation’s staff hold approximately 1,000 auditions every year.
Top-caliber musicians assess the applicants and make recommendations for grants. All candidates are assessed by 3 independent judges, specific to each field and discipline. Each jury is comprised of top artists in their field with significant careers in Israel and/or abroad. Each year approximately 40 judges participate in the evaluation process across all fields.
For further information: Jessica Hadler, Program Director – [email protected];
Ophir Lotan, Program Administrator – [email protected]
