Lauren Gardner

A fortune cookie tucked away in his wallet for years inspired Thomas Harp to make a movie based on the its simple message, "Whatever your destination, happiness awaits."

Currently working on the film "Fortune Hunters," Harp says he could not have done it without help from the CityArtist Projects, a program sponsored by the Mayor's Office of Art & Cultural Affairs. The office provides yearly funding to local artists, supporting creative endeavors intended to reach the public sphere.

"This project was larger than others, and I knew I'd need to find grant money," said Harp at an informational meeting on the program Jan. 23 at the Ballard Public Library.

"CityArtist Projects is part of our Civic Partnership Program, which makes investments in the arts and cultural community that, in turn, ensure Seattle residents access to a wide variety of arts and cultural opportunities," said Mayor Greg Nickels in an information packet on the program.

With a total amount of funding around $150,000 to $160,000, an average of 25 to 30 applicants are funded each year for local art projects, said Irene G