What Global Warming? Funding to visit the coldest place on earth.

It is hard for me, someone living in WI where we spend 6 months waiting for warm weather and sun, to imagine why anyone would want to spend their free time in Antarctica, where mean temperatures in the warmest month range from 5° to -49°F. Yes, you read correctly – the warmest month. For you amply bronzed, vitamin-D saturated, curious folk just dying to get a taste of misery, consider yourself lucky: I can't imagine this grant has too much competition.

Antarctic Artists and Writers Program

• PURPOSE: To enable serious writings and works of art that exemplify the Antarctic heritage of humankind. To increase public understanding of the Antarctic region, including the continent and the surrounding oceans, as well as the associated research and education endeavors. Opportunities for professional artists and writers to travel to Antarctica — at research stations, field camps, and aboard ships — to make the observations necessary to complete their proposed projects.

• AMOUNT: Travel and field support.

• ELIGIBILITY: Established artists and writers as well as early career artists and writers in an effort to broaden participation.

• DEADLINE: June 13, 2006.