Rhode Island School of Design

Block Island Arts Council is proud to support the partnership between RISD and the Thomas McAleer Visual Arts Endowed Scholarship.

Create your own dream.

  • Dream it.

    Interested in taking an art class at RISD? In Tom McAleer’s memory, his family and friends have established an artist endowment to foster a connection between Block Island and Rhode Island School of Design Continuing Education. 

    This scholarship enables people to receive FREE CLASSES through RISD's Continuing Ed programs, and is open to anyone with a connection to Block Island, of any age, and no financial disclosures are required.

    The Thomas McAleer Visual Arts Scholarship at the Rhode Island School of Design Continuing Education Program is now accepting applications for the fall of 2026. 

    Here is the link to apply to the scholarship and sign up for classes 

    https://cereg.risd.edu/portal/applications/applicationProfile.do?method=loadApplicationIndex&applicationProfileId=36038766

    RISD Continuing Education will be hosting a pilot program with a Beginning  Drawing class taught by Claire Marschak at the Block Island School on Wednesday nights Nov 4-Dec 16 

    https://cereg.risd.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=24132127

    IN-PERSON COURSE INFO

    Choose from popular online courses for personal and professional development. You can opt to take many of these courses as part of a certificate program, including graphic design, animation, painting, interior design, and more.

    BROWSE ONLINE COURSES

    The BI Arts Council fund can assist with additional expenses such as: art supplies, transportation, mainland accommodations for students and families of young students, food, advertising, and other unforeseen costs.

  • Create it.

    Tom McAleer was a plein air painter who painted on a daily basis, despite any inclement weather. He concentrated on the process, which he described as a quick therapy session that helped refocus him on the daily rhythm of life. Created with quick, deliberate strokes, passion and dance, his daily devotion and dedication is an inspiration to all artists.

    Tom’s paintings are as energetic and colorful as his outstanding personality. He passed away on August 12, 2014.  Although he is gone, he continues to inspire creativity with the legacy he left behind.

    Please consider supporting this effort with a tax-deductible donation to the BI Arts Council. Contributions can be made by check, payable to:

    BI Arts Council
    PO Box 515

    or through this PayPal link:
    paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/3683613

    For all contributions, please note for McAleer Fund in the memo.