Durham Arts Council

The Durham Arts Council's mission is to promote excellence in and access to the creation, experience and active support of the arts for all people of our community.

The mission is fulfilled by:

Managing and programming the city-owned, downtown community arts center to provide a premier venue for artists and arts and community groups to create, present and share their diverse cultural work with the public in a creative and beautiful downtown gathering space.

Providing quality year round arts programming, including visual and performing arts classes for all ages: summer and intersession camps for youth, artist residences that teach core curriculum in the public, private and charter schools, year round visual arts exhibitions, Durham Art Walk and CenterFest Arts Festival.

Providing grants, information services, technical assistance, contracted employment, and referrals to artists and arts organizations to support their work and service to the community.

Providing leadership in planning and advocating for the vital role of a flourishing arts and cultural sector in building a vibrant community, quality education, and economic development.