About Us
Mission
Asheville Area Arts Council: Keeping the arts at the heart of our community.
Vision
To support area artists and arts organizations through advocacy, professional development, and business services.
How do we support our mission?
Advocacy
- Keeping the sector informed
- Strong strategic partner
- Source for data & reports
- Marketing for sector
- Public art supporter
Professional Development
- Trainings, seminars, & workshops
- Scholarships & grants
- Resources & reports
- Creative Sector Series
Business Services
- Program & operating grants
- Marketing services & event listings
- Arts directory & job listings
- Additional consulting services
Why is this mission important?
1
Drives Economic Growth & Sustainability
2
Creatives Attachment & Cultural Identity
3
Creates Social Cohesion & Cultural Understanding
4
Supports the Contributions of our Creative Communities
5
Supports Public Health & Sense of Belonging
We believe the arts are the cornerstone of what makes Asheville such a great city to live in and visit. The creative sector has a major impact on our local economy. Non-profit arts organizations alone support roughly 2,233 full-time jobs, generate $51.3 million in household income to local residents, and deliver $7.3 million in local and state government revenue. But, that’s not all the arts do for Buncombe County. The arts improve the image and identity of our community through creative placemaking and public art. In addition, arts programs help to unify our communities regardless of age, race, gender, or class; positively impact our education system; and improve the overall health of our citizens. Investing in the arts, is a real investment in Buncombe County.