TRAap will support multiple apprentices if required by the art form or tradition but these must be fully explained in the application. TRAap strongly encourages applications from masters of traditional art forms practiced by only a few people in their community and requires that applicants share the same cultural heritage.

A master artist has learned skills informally and has received peer recognition for achieving the highest level of artistry according to community standards. Master artists are encouraged to apply for all grants and awards offered by the Commission.

An apprentice has some background in the proposed art form, wishes to learn from a recognized master, and is committed to continue practicing after the apprenticeship has ended.

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must meet the general eligibility criteria for individuals.
Priority is given to art forms with few practitioners.
Art forms must represent shared cultural traditions of both applicants.
Masters must be recognized by their communities and peers for the excellence of their work.
Apprentices must have some familiarity with the art form to be studied or be experienced in a related art form.
Applicants younger than 18 years of age are allowed to apply as apprentices when their artistic traditions are typically passed down to persons under 18.
In-family apprenticeships are encouraged.
Multiple apprenticeships are allowed when the art form or tradition normally involves a group. One person is designated as the apprentice, and the names of all other persons in the group are listed separately.
Masters may live in other states or foreign provinces because some of Idaho's ethnic and cultural groups extend into those areas. Apprentices must live in Idaho.

AWARD AMOUNT
The maximum award is $3,000, including $20 per hour for up to 100 hours of master's time. Remaining funds may be applied to allowable travel, materials, and supplies.

HOW TO APPLY
Application should be in 12-point or neatly handwritten. Since copies will be duplicated please do not use staples. Fill out the Checklist & Budget Form 2B for required materials.

EVALUATION CRITERIA
Quality (50 points)
Master is recognized as such by peers and by community standards.
The apprentice will benefit from working with the master at this time.
The apprentice is committed to advancing his or her skills in the art form and to carrying on the tradition.

Community (25 points)
Master and apprentice share the same cultural background.
The art form is significant to their community.
The art form is endangered within the particular traditional culture or there are few artists practicing it.

Feasibility (25 points)
The goals for the apprenticeship are clear and the budget is appropriate.
The budget is appropriate.
The work plan provides appropriate time for interaction to achieve meaningful results.

LENGTH OF APPRENTICESHIP
The length of the apprenticeships may vary from four to ten months, depending on the particular art form and on the proposed work plan. Master and apprentice together develop a work plan that should detail meeting schedule and site, supplies, and materials. Carefully consider the availability of seasonal materials and the length of time it will take to harvest and prepare them for use. This may affect what is accomplished during the apprenticeship.

POSTMARK DEADLINE
Visit the Deadline page.

All TRAap recipients should be available for review with the program director and submit a final report describing what was accomplished, the impediments encountered, and how the apprentice met the goals set for the apprenticeship. The format for this report is flexible and may include a journal, photographs, or a combination of video or audio tapes of significant work sessions. Final reports must be submitted within 30 days after completion of the project (more about Final Reports).