The Illinois Arts Council was created as a state agency by the Illinois General Assembly in 1965 through legislation sponsored by Senators Paul Simon, Thomas McGloon, and Alan Dixon. The agency is governed by up to twenty-one private citizens chosen for their demonstrated commitment to the arts and appointed by the Governor. Council members serve in a voluntary, non-paid capacity and are charged with developing the state’s public arts policy, fostering quality culturally diverse programs, and approving grants expenditures. A small professional staff with in-depth knowledge of the arts develops and administers the agency’s programs, provides technical assistance, and ensures the responsible and impactful distribution of all funds. Resources to support the Illinois Arts Council are provided by the Governor and General Assembly of Illinois and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Mission
"Building a strong, creative, and connected Illinois through the engagement of all Illinoisans in the pursuit of, participation in, and enjoyment of the arts."
Core Values
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Access is not enough; we believe in active engagement with all Illinoisans, ensuring that residents of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to participate in, and experience, the arts and culture.
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We appreciate, respect, and are committed to supporting the rich diversity of the arts and culture in Illinois.
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We are committed to the pursuit of excellence in everything we do and in the caliber of arts experience for all Illinoisans.
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We strive to cultivate long-term sustainability in the vitality of our creative spirit and the pathways through which that creativity is channeled by and to the people of Illinois.
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Just as art is meant to be shared with others, we believe in partnership and collaboration in all aspects of our work, and we encourage collaboration between the arts and cultural community in Illinois and the broader community in our state and our country, and around the world.
What We Do
The Illinois Arts Council Agency serves the people of Illinois through a variety of grants and services, primarily geared to:
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Support Illinois' Arts Sector: Operating and technical support provided to organizations and programs statewide helps keep Illinois’ arts sector vital, vibrant, and accessible to all.
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Advance Arts Education: The arts can be a part of the education of every single child in this state through the programs, services, partnerships, and collaborations of the Illinois Arts Council.
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Foster Creativity and Working Artists: Resources, opportunities, and direct support for the work of individual artists -- the foundation of Illinois' creative environment.
More
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To learn more about the work of the Illinois Arts Council Agency, please use the links to the left to access our Strategic Directions 2007-2012 and recent Annual Report.
