Originally posted by the Ohio Art’s Council:
July 18, 2024
As we step into the heart of summer, Ohio’s arts community comes alive with a multitude of enriching experiences and opportunities for both creators and enthusiasts alike. Here at the Ohio Arts Council (OAC), we are thrilled to highlight several key events and initiatives that underscore the dynamic spirit of our state’s cultural landscape.
One of the hallmark events this season was the Destination Integration Arts Education Summer Symposium, a gathering that exemplifies our commitment to fostering arts education excellence. This symposium brings together educators, administrators, and teaching artists to explore innovative ways of integrating arts into education curricula. The partners that create this annual event are the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education, OhioDance, Art Possible Ohio, the Kennedy Center Partners in Education and Any Given Child sites, and the OAC. It’s a forum where ideas flourish and collaborations bloom, setting the stage for a more creatively empowered school year, which will be here in just a few more weeks.
Another highlight is the Ohio State Fair, where art takes center stage alongside agriculture and entertainment. This year, visitors can expect a diverse showcase of visual arts, performances, and interactive exhibits that reflect Ohio’s rich artistic heritage. It’s a wonderful opportunity for artists to connect with a broader audience and for fairgoers to experience the transformative power of art firsthand. We have been thrilled to also partner with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to bring teachers and high school students together to create art at the fair in the ODNR park space on the fairgrounds.
In June, Ohio had the privilege of hosting the National Council on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) through site visits to arts and cultural institutions, a town hall, and a public meeting. These were pivotal events that underscored the importance of federal support for the arts. The gatherings provided platforms for meaningful dialogue and collaboration among arts leaders, policymakers, and community members. As NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson eloquently put it, “The arts have the unique ability to bridge divides and build a more inclusive society.” We extend special thanks to State Representative Jay Edwards (94th Ohio House district), Brandon Thompson (artist and entrepreneur of Athens), and Melissa Wales (executive director of Stuart’s Opera House of Nelsonville) for leading the way during the town hall. The NEA public meeting featured musicians from the Columbus Jazz Youth Orchestra; Ohio Poet Laureate Kari Gunter-Seymour (of Albany, Ohio); and, of course, an uplifting environment in the historic landmark that served as our host, the Lincoln Theatre in Columbus.
Looking forward, the Ohio Arts Council FY 2025 grant awards represent a significant investment in our state’s cultural vitality. These grants, approved by the board of the Ohio Arts Council, support a wide array of projects and programs across Ohio, ranging from community arts initiatives to individual artist fellowships. Each grant is a testament to our belief in the power of the arts to inspire, educate, and enrich lives. It is also a statement about the value and impact of the arts from Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Husted, and the Ohio General Assembly. We are grateful for their on-going support of the arts through the Ohio Arts Council in all 88 Ohio counties.
At the Ohio Arts Council, we remain steadfast in our mission to cultivate creativity, honor diversity, and ensure that the arts thrive in every corner of our state. Whether you’re exploring exhibitions at the State Fair, participating in arts education at a community event or local class, or benefiting from our grant programs, we invite you to join us in celebrating Ohio’s vibrant arts scene this summer and beyond.
Let’s continue to embrace the transformative power of the arts and create a future where creativity flourishes for all.
Until next time,
Donna S. Collins
Executive Director
https://oac.ohio.gov/home/news-and-events/all-news/july-2024-executive-message