Oliver Tree’s Family Establishes Foundation to Provide Grants to Artists
The family of Oliver Tree has officially established a new foundation, honoring the late singer’s final wishes to provide financial support to the next generation of creators. Just two weeks after the artist tragically died in a helicopter crash in Brazil at the age of 32, his family launched Dr. Oliver Tree’s Extremely Epic Art Grant for Baby Geniuses this past Saturday.
In a mission statement released by the foundation, the organization emphasized the late musician’s unique philosophy on artistic development. “Oliver believed the most valuable way for artists to master their craft was not through studying, but by physically getting their hands dirty and creating things,” the statement read. “The foundation provides grants to artists working in music, film, installation, and performance art.”
A Legacy of Creative Support
The foundation is the realization of a vision Tree had long discussed in interviews prior to his untimely death. In a video shared on the foundation’s website, the artist explained his desire to reinvest in the creative community. “When I die, all the money is going to go back to artists. So I set up a foundation… Hopefully it’ll last for 100 years,” Tree said. He was specific about the nature of the support, noting that the funds were intended for production rather than traditional education. “You’re not allowed to buy equipment with the money, you’re not allowed to get education or go to school with the money, but you’re allowed to physically hire people to help produce stuff, you’re allowed to rent gear and equipment.”
Tree also outlined a collaborative approach to the selection process, stating that he had established a committee of former collaborators to oversee the distribution of funds. “Collaborators I made music or film or art with when I was alive will make the decision,” he noted.
Looking Toward the Future
According to the foundation, the organization will be funded through the sale of non-art-related and non-sentimental assets, with additional donations being accepted to ensure the fund remains active for at least 50 to 100 years. While specific details regarding application requirements and submission timelines are expected to be announced soon, the initiative stands as a testament to Tree’s commitment to fostering raw, hands-on creativity.
In addition to the launch of the grant program, the family announced that a memorial service and celebration of life will be held on July 25 at the University of California-Santa Cruz’s Quarry Amphitheater. While the event will be limited to friends and family, it is scheduled to be streamed live for the public.
