The New York Foundation for the Arts, created in 1971 to provide independent artists with resources and aid, will offer a free presentation 3:30 p.m. today in ArtStreet Studio B.

NYFA staff member Mark Rossier said the purpose of this organization is to help artists all over the nation.

"The mission [of NYFA] is to serve artists at critical stages in their creative lives," Rossier said. "We do this by awarding cash grants to artists and artist-run organizations."

Not only does NYFA award financial support to artists, but it also provides a database with jobs and internships for.

"If you're an art student and want to get an internship in New York City, they have a listing," said Susan Byrnes, ArtStreet director.

NYFA hopes to attract all varieties of artists to this informational session, including musicians, painters, writers, filmmakers and any other artist wanting to pursue a career in his or her field.

Rory Golden, program officer for external affairs at NYFA, will speak during the presentation at ArtStreet.

Golden said he wants to see students "with an interest in pursuing creative professional careers either as independent artists or by working with not-for-profits."

Golden is a Miami Valley native and said he enjoys being able to support and coach other artists.

At the NYFA presentation, he will expose students to information on fiscal sponsorship along with other fundraising support the organization offers.

Byrnes said students are highly encouraged to attend this presentation.

"If you're an artist, you're like a sole operator of a business; if you don't have a network of resources it is hard to get things done," she said. "NYFA is that network for independent artists all across the country. It's an important organization for artists to be connected to."

NYFA decided to hold this session at UD because artists are in a critical stage of their careers when preparing for graduation. Also, though based in New York, NYFA is available all across the country and wants artists to be aware of that.

"[NYFA] wants to show people that it is a national organization and can serve people nationally," Byrnes said. "We are actually pretty fortunate to have this presentation."

Along with the presentation, NYFA will also offer a limited number of free 15-minute one-on-one consultations.

To reserve a consultation or for more information, contact ArtStreet at (937) 229-5101 or artstreet@udayton.edu.