You may not realize it, but you benefit from the hard work that Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County does every day.

But what exactly is the Arts Council and why does it matter?

Here are six reasons the organization’s efforts, existence + advocacy are so important to the region (and you).

It’s the arts, but better

While they may need no introduction to Winstonians who do practically anything locally, Arts Council has been the chief driver and advocate for the arts since 1949.

Now, 75 years later, Arts Council is a critical supporter, funder, and producer of local arts + cultural experiences. In short — they fuel the arts scene, local events, and economic growth throughout the region.

It’s ($196 million) good for the economy

Forsyth County’s nonprofit arts and culture industry annually generates ~$196 million in economic activity. By the numbers, we see:

$101.4 million generated by nonprofit arts + culture organizations
$94.9 million generated by audience event-related spending
2,472 jobs supported
$34.1 million in local, state, and federal government revenue generated
800,000 individuals (yep, that includes you) impacted by grants

It ensures the arts (and artists) thrive

In 2023, Arts Council held 670 events on their campus, encompassing Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, Hanesbrands Theatre, Sawtooth School for Visual Art + more.

Additionally, they fuel thousands of community events every year, which not only makes living locally fun, but also gives local artists a vitally important platform to perform, promote, and create.

Local businesses benefit, too

According to a 2022 study, a typical local attendee spends $52.17 per person per event not including admission, and non-locals (~33% of attendees) spend $83.16. Doing the math: That’s a huge source of income for local businesses.

It’s the region’s largest funder of arts education

Arts Council’s Arts-in-Education Grant funds art programs that connect artists + arts organizations with over 33,000 K-12 students.

It's made possible by you

Want to make a difference? Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County is supported and sustained by the community. Support the arts by giving or attending events.

Support local arts
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