Effective Date: 01.01.24
1. Introduction
1.1 At Devil Mask Studio (“The Studio”), we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse community of rope enthusiasts. We believe everyone should have access to the art of shibari, regardless of their financial circumstances. To support this commitment, we have established the Devil Mask Studio Scholarship Program to provide opportunities for individuals who may not otherwise have access to our classes and workshops.
2. Scholarship Eligibility
2.1. Open to All: The Devil Mask Studio Scholarship Program is open to individuals of all backgrounds, orientations, genders, and skill levels who have demonstrated a commitment to learning and practicing shibari.
2.2 Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need – barrier(s) that would make it difficult or impossible for them to regularly participate in Studio activities at the standard rate.. This could be due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: low income, unbanked or underbanked status, or student status.
3. Application Process
3.1 Application Form: Interested individuals must complete and submit the Devil Mask Studio Scholarship Application Form. This form is available on our website and can be accessed by anyone interested in applying for a scholarship.
3.2 Personal Statement: Applicants must include a written personal statement explaining why they are interested in learning shibari, how it aligns with their personal goals, and how receiving a scholarship would benefit them. This statement should be concise but thoughtful.
3.3 Interview & Proof of Financial Need: To receive a scholarship, applicants must provide documentation demonstrating their financial need. Studio management will work with applicants to substantiate their needs – this could include providing recent tax returns, pay stubs, student enrollment verification, or a brief explanation of their financial situation.
4. Selection Process
4.1 Confidential Review: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the Scholarship Selection Committee (“The Committee”), a panel of representatives of The Studio. Committee members review all applications for accuracy and fit while safeguarding applicants’ privacy. The committee assesses applications based on financial need, the impact of the applicant’s personal statement, and how strongly the applicant’s goals align with The Studio’s mission.
4.2 Interview: The selection committee will conduct interviews with applicants to better understand their goals and aspirations.
4.3 Acceptance: Award decisions are made based on the information contained in the initial application, the applicant’s interview, and deliberation with The Committee. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application.
5. Scholarship Awards
5.1 Number of Scholarships: The number of scholarships awarded will be initially capped at 10 concurrent members at any time.
5.2 Scholarship Benefits: Each recipient of a Devil Mask Studio Scholarship will receive a fully paid one-year Standard Studio Membership with all applicable benefits and responsibilities.
6. Terms and Conditions
6.1 Commitment to Learning: Scholarship recipients are expected to utilize their membership benefits monthly. Failure to attend events for three consecutive months may void the scholarship and associated benefits, at the discretion of The Committee.
6.2 Conduct: Scholarship recipients are expected to adhere to the Devil Mask Studio Code of Conduct. Actions contrary to the Code of Conduct will be reviewed by The Committee and may void the scholarship awarded.
6.3 Confidentiality: All information provided by scholarship applicants, including financial documentation and personal statements, will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
6.4 Non-transferable: Scholarships are non-transferable and can only be used by the recipient. For events where registration is for a tying pair, one member of that pair must be the recipient.
6.5 Reapplication: Scholarship recipients are welcome to reapply for the Devil Mask Studio Scholarship at the end of their one year membership if they continue to demonstrate financial need and a commitment to their shibari practice.
Contact Information:
For any questions or inquiries regarding the Devil Mask Studio Scholarship Program, please contact: [email protected]
Policy Revision:
This scholarship policy is subject to periodic review and revision by The Studio to ensure its effectiveness and fairness. Scholarship recipients will be given one month’s notice of any changes to these terms.