Disrupting the Arts
Right Brain is widening the tent — because creativity belongs to everyone.
Disrupting the Arts
Right Brain is widening the tent — because creativity belongs to everyone.
Art is not the privilege of the few, confined to elite circles or exclusive spaces. It is the birthright of all— of every dreamer, every rebel, every unheard voice longing to create.
What does Right Brian do?
Right Brain is dedicated to fostering innovation and excellence in the arts by providing financial, management, and advisory support and resources to artists and arts organizations. Our mission is to nurture creative potential, promote cultural awareness, and enhance economic development through the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Right Brain is dedicated to fostering innovation and excellence in the arts by offering financial, managerial, and advisory support to artists and arts organizations. The foundation’s activities include:
- Grants & Financial Support: Providing funding for emerging artists and arts organizations.
- Exhibitions & Public Events: Supporting and organizing artistic performances, exhibitions, and cultural events to increase public accessibility to the arts.
- Arts-Related Economic Development: Investing in creative enterprises that contribute to economic growth and sustainability.
- Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Funding projects that celebrate and safeguard artistic traditions and diverse cultural expressions.
- Educational Programs & Mentorship: Facilitating mentorship programs, workshops, and professional development opportunities for artists.
Right Brain was founded by Thomas and Rebecca Ferleman, who have spent decades supporting nonprofit organizations and investing in the arts. Through their experience, they recognized a fundamental issue: too many nonprofit arts organizations exist primarily to sustain themselves rather than directly benefiting the artists they claim to support. In some cases, these organizations absorb the majority of available funding, leaving independent artists struggling to make a living.
In response, they established Right Brain to empower artists as entrepreneurs and ensure that arts organizations serve creative communities in meaningful ways. Right Brain isn’t about handouts—it’s about equipping artists with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to build successful, sustainable careers.
At its core, Right Brain is committed to expanding opportunities and creating a place where more artists can participate, succeed, and contribute. The focus is on practical support, mentorship, and investments that help artists thrive—not just survive—so that the arts remain a vibrant and vital part of our economy and culture.
Right Brain serves a diverse group of stakeholders, including:
- Emerging & Established Artists: Individuals seeking financial and managerial support to grow their careers.
- Arts Organizations & Nonprofits: Groups focused on cultural and artistic development.
- Local Communities & Audiences: Right Brain aims to make art accessible to all communities.
- Corporate & Philanthropic Partners: Businesses and donors interested in supporting the arts through funding and collaborations.
Right Brain activities take place in various venues, including:
- Art Galleries & Museums: Hosting exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.
- Community Centers & Educational Institutions: Offering workshops and mentorship programs.
- Online Platforms & Digital Spaces: Providing virtual training, digital exhibits, and global access to artistic resources.
- Creative Industry Hubs: Investing in arts-related businesses to drive economic development.
Right Brain operates on an ongoing basis, with activities scheduled as follows:
- Annual & Biannual Grant Cycles: Artists and organizations can apply for funding opportunities once or twice per year.
- Seasonal Exhibitions & Performances: Public events occur quarterly or seasonally.
- Workshops & Educational Programs: Conducted throughout the year, often in collaboration with partner institutions.
- Investment in Creative Businesses: Strategic funding initiatives are managed based on available resources and market conditions.
Right Brain is a nonprofit organization, with most services offered at no charge. However, the following financial structures apply:
- Grant Application Fees: Minimal processing fees may apply to cover administrative costs.
- Loans: All loans come with interest, terms of payment, and are defined as contracts. Most loans are below common market-rates.
- Investment: Options exist for Right Brain to make equity investments in art projects to help differ costs and ensure a successful outcome.
- Ticketed Events: Some exhibitions, performances, or fundraising events may charge an admission fee.
- Workshops & Training Programs: Certain professional development courses may have a tiered pricing model based on participant needs.
- Donations & Sponsorships: Revenue is primarily generated through philanthropic contributions, sponsorships, donations, and investment earnings.
Right Brain allocates its resources as follows:
- 40% - Financial Grants & Support (direct funding for artists and arts related businesses)
- 30% - Exhibitions & Public Events (community engagement and cultural programming)
- 15% - Educational & Mentorship Programs (workshops, training, artist development)
- 10% - Operational & Administrative Costs (staff, legal, and financial oversight)
- 5% - Marketing & Outreach (building awareness, donor engagement, and social media presence)
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
We love the arts, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.
Right Brain Foundation
9 North Centre Street Cumberland MD 21502
Copyright © 2025 Right Brain Foundation - All Rights Reserved.
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