About the Ruth & Harold Chenven Foundation

Inspired by an appreciation of art and artists, the Ruth & Harold Chenven Foundation was started in 1982 as a not-for-profit charitable corporation. The Foundation was the vision of silversmith and jewelry designer, Ruth Chenven. The vision was realized by her husband, Harold Chenven, following Ruth's death in 1980.

Helping Artists

The Foundation gives cash awards to individual artists and craftspersons, selected by a panel of judges. Our winners have told us that our grants have made a significant impact on their ability to continue their work. We take great pride in the fact that many of our grantees have gone on to receive increased public recognition and appreciation. Some have work in the permanent collections of prestigious museums including the Smithsonian and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In addition, winners have had their art displayed in numerous local museums and public spaces across the United States. Some of our artists have earned Fullbright Scholarships to study and teach art abroad.

30 Years

The Ruth & Harold Chenven Foundation, in 2012, is celebrating thirty years of fulfilling Ruth's vision. Given the continually shrinking pool of government financial support for the arts, we are grateful to be able to continue our mission of recognizing artists. We welcome your support.