PURPOSE AND FUNDING SOURCES

In 1965, the Illinois General Assembly created the Illinois Arts Council (IAC) for the purpose of encouraging development of the arts throughout Illinois. This state agency assists artists, arts organizations, and other community organizations that present arts programming by providing financial and technical assistance. Funds are provided annually to the Council by the Governor, the General Assembly, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE COUNCIL AND ITS ACTIVITIES

The agency is governed by a Council comprised of up to twenty-one private citizens, from throughout Illinois, who are appointed by the Governor. Chosen for their demonstrated commitment to the arts, members of the Council are charged with developing the state’s public arts policy, fostering quality culturally diverse programs, and approving grants expenditures. These members serve in a voluntary capacity for four-year terms.

ADVISORY PANELS AND STAFF

Advisory panels — composed of volunteer experts from throughout the state — are appointed by the Council Chairman to assist the Council in the review of grants applications and to lend expertise on policy and program development. Panelists are selected through open nominations and serve for one-year terms.

A professional staff administers and develops the Council’s programs, assists grants applicants, and provides pertinent information to the public. The IAC staff provides technical assistance and lends expertise to artists, arts organizations, and community organizations that present arts programming.

ILLINOIS ARTS COUNCIL 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

• 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.
  
  
• We appreciate, respect, and are committed to supporting the rich diversity of the arts and culture in Illinois.
  
  
• We are committed to the pursuit of excellence in everything we do and in the caliber of arts experiences for all Illinoisans.
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• 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, our country, and around the world.