You can't put a price on creativity, but creative projects often require some cash. Our Kaitlyn Lionti tells us about some local artists who have found a unique way to raise money for their ideas that can work even when money is tight.

ELMIRA, N.Y. -- Mackenzie Bristow and Ron Saunders are an art team heading to Finland for a residency program this spring. Bristow spent time as an exchange student there in the 90s and it means a lot to her to return.

"The project is focused on the topic of nostalgia, so, of course, I have a really deep nostalgia about my time in Finland, but I'm also equally as excited to see where Finland is now," said Bristow.

But the cost of the trip includes a large price tag.

"We were able to get a lot of the funding upfront for the travel expenses, as well as some of the expenses for making art, but we weren't able to get full funding for creating a book that we want to do when we're there," said Saunders.

So the team got involved with kickstarter.com, which is a platform created to help artists and people with creative ideas gather funding for their projects. They were invited to join by Ann Welles, who recently used the site to raise money for her gallery in Corning.

"The money will go towards post cards mailings, vinyl letters, paint, all the little incidental expenses that add up," said Welles.

The artist or creator of the project posts information about it on the site and sets a financial goal and different contribution levels for people to pledge money.

“It doesn't have to fit the mission of a grant, rather you can pretty much do whatever you want," said Saunders.

And it's easy to support a project, even in our economy.

"Because things are at such different levels for example you can support the project for $5, I mean that's almost like a cup of coffee, right?" said Bristow.

If the goal isn't reached, the backers don't have to pay. If it is, they receive creative rewards for their contribution and get to help turn a dream into a reality.

"It's just a great opportunity for people to learn about projects, support people locally and internationally if you choose," said Bristow.

"I've realized there's a lot of people out there who want to support this gallery, which is priceless," said Welles.

Currently, people can submit projects to kickstarter.com by invitation only, but if you're interested in getting involved, contact the site's creators at www.kickstarter.com/help/faq .

To learn more, visit:
www.kickstarter.com

To visit Bristow and Saunders page:
www.kickstarter.com/projects/Finland/art-for-finland-made-by-americans.