It all started Aug. 9, 1949 — $7,200 of seed money in hand and a big vision to support and grow the arts in Winston-Salem.

Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County (ICYMI: they're the first arts council in the US) turns 75 today — and to celebrate, we’re taking a look back + a look forward at the organization that is the leading advocate, instigator, and promoter of art and culture experiences in the region.

A look back

While our arts heritage began in the 1700s with Moravian craft (think: pottery, cabinetry, music, tin wares, and more), the modern-day earning of the nickname “The City of the Arts” is thanks in big part to the work Arts Council has been doing for 75 years.

In the early 20th century, the Junior League of Winston-Salem was instrumental in opening new channels for local arts — and it was the same league that worked with city leaders and provided the seed money to establish the first arts council in the US in 1949.

From the beginning, the mission of Arts Council was to regionally “plan, coordinate, promote, and sponsor the opportunity for, and the appreciation of, cultural activities.”

A look forward

Jump ahead 75 years, and we see a thriving arts scene + local economic growth critically supported, funded, and produced by Arts Council.

Last year, the council promoted thousands of activities and held 670 events on their campus, encompassing Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, Hanesbrands Theatre, Sawtooth School for Visual Art + more.

Arts Council’s core tenets are to:

Champion creativity as an essential community asset (Creativity)
Engage authentically in all corners of the community (Community)
Celebrate fresh perspectives and diverse voices (Diversity)
Break down barriers to expand human connection (Access)
Embrace risk-taking to advance collective goals (Innovation)
Create a culture of belonging for creatives and all residents (Inclusivity)
Set an ambition to outperform expectation (Excellence)

A year-long celebration

Arts Council is marking the occasion by hosting 75th anniversary events all year long. See what’s coming — or attend any other council-supported arts events happening throughout the region.