More than a fourth of the Mississippi Arts Commission’s $1.64 million in grants funding for fiscal 2011 is going to the metro Jackson area.

The Mississippi Arts Commission says the $1.64 million represents a boost of $140,000 from last year, consistent with the state agency’s goal to increase funds to artists and arts groups across the state to serve a larger number of residents.

Funds awarded in 46 Mississippi counties include operating support for museums and community arts centers and small grants to help schools bring in guest artists.