National Society of Arts and Letters

The National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) is a nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to supporting and encouraging young artists through competitions, scholarships, and other career opportunities.

History

Founded in 1944 by a group of women with a vision to encourage young talent in the arts, NSAL initially focused on women's participation but later expanded its membership to include men. The organization's early leadership included notable figures such as Mollie Davis Nicholson and Francesca Falk Miller Nielsen. Over the years, NSAL has grown to include numerous chapters across the United States.

Mission and Activities

NSAL's mission is to provide financial assistance, mentorship, and career opportunities to promising young artists. The organization offers a variety of competitions in categories such as visual arts, dance, drama, literature, music, and musical theater. These competitions are designed to provide exposure for young artists, allowing them to be judged and mentored by nationally recognized professionals in their respective fields.

Competitions and Scholarships

The National Society of Arts and Letters conducts annual competitions at both the local and national levels. Winners at the local chapter level compete in the national competition held during the Society's annual meeting. Prizes can include substantial monetary awards, with first-place winners in certain categories receiving up to $15,000 and additional awards totaling $10,000 or more.

Notable past beneficiaries of NSAL competitions include Oscar-winning actress Shirley MacLaine and international opera star Jessye Norman. The organization also offers specific scholarships, such as the Winston Scholarships in Two-Dimensional Art and Classical Voice, which provide recipients with a total of $12,000 each.

Structure and Membership

NSAL is comprised of chapters across the United States, with members including professionals in the arts and patrons who support the organization's mission. Members and chapters collaborate to organize local events, performances, and meetings that highlight emerging talent and foster community engagement within the arts.

External Recognition

The organization's influence extends beyond the competitions, as it has been recognized for its role in nurturing talent within the arts community. Today, NSAL continues to be a significant force in promoting young artists and fostering creativity nationwide.