Author: Andie Freeman
The North Carolina Arts Council is developing a bold five-year strategic plan that will strengthen our state's arts community. Over the past year, we've taken time for research and reflection to shape this vision. The staff began by examining their work priorities, assessing current conditions in the field, and identifying challenges that need attention. The Arts Council’s board leadership then joined staff to form a strategic planning committee that moved the process forward.
To gain firsthand insights, Arts Council members hosted community conversations statewide with arts organizations and individual artists. They also conducted focused discussions about Arts in Education programs.
Four interconnected goals for 2025–2029 emerged:
- Bolster North Carolina’s arts and cultural sector
- Champion the arts as essential to learning and student success
- Promote the arts through partnerships and marketing
- Grow the internal capacity of the North Carolina Arts Council to strengthen the impact of its programs
After the devastating storm last fall, we added one more goal:
- Rebuild western North Carolina’s creative sector after Hurricane Helene
A public meeting happened this week at Arts Culture Catawba, in Hickory. We invite you to view our strategic plan and share your thoughts: North Carolina Arts Council Strategic Plan 2025-2029: Public Input.