Quality arts programming and services
Have you been to Momentum, enjoyed public art, joined in the Art Loop or been impressed with the art of a YAAW Artist?!
The Arts Commission of Greater Toledo is the longest-standing arts commission in the state of Ohio, founded in 1959. It is supported in part by the Ohio Arts Council and by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Toledo has an impressive collection of public art, with large-scale sculptures, murals, and functional structures by noted artists from across the country. Many of these pieces were acquired through the pioneering 1977 ordinance that set aside one percent of Toledo’s Capital Improvement Budget for the purchase, conservation, and public education of art. Toledo was the first city in Ohio to adopt a One Percent for Art program. The 1977 ordinance served as a model for Ohio’s Percent for Art program, administered by the Ohio Arts Council, which began in 1990. The program is administered by The Arts Commission through its Art in Public Places Program, which acquires, conserves and restores the collection. This administration also includes the education of the community related to the understanding and enjoyment of public art.
In the community The Arts Commission delivers innovative and influential programming, including public events that support and drive our local economy. In addition, the organization offers educational and professional development opportunities for artists and area youth, advocacy on behalf of artists and cultural organizations, and access to arts and culture for all in the greater Toledo region.
The Arts Commission is honored to serve the artists, cultural institutions, and creative community who make our city an inspiring place to live, work, and create. They are also the leading organization in Toledo driving creative placemaking efforts. As defined by the National Endowment for the Arts: “Creative placemaking animates public and private spaces, rejuvenates structures and streetscapes, improves local business viability and public safety, and brings diverse people together to celebrate, inspire, and be inspired.” Creative, resident-led engagement drives civic change that inspires the reuse of public spaces, creates healthier, safer environments, and increases the vibrancy of our greater community.
In 2020, The Arts Commission recently forged a partnership with the City of Toledo and the Lucas County Board of Commissioners to administer the Toledo and Lucas County Arts Relief Grant Program. The goal of this program was to provide economic relief to artists and organizations whose ability to earn income has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and who have not been able to access CARES Act or other relief efforts. The $450,000 program provided financial relief for 190 local artists and 14 small arts and culture organizations.
To learn more about the Arts Commission or to get involved visit: Arts Commission
