April 22, 2014

From professional dance companies and stage actors to solo sculptors and painters, our arts and culture community plays an important role in making Portland a thriving, vibrant city.

On Wednesday, City Council will be pleased to present an afternoon of arts – starting with the Regional Arts & Culture Council’s (RACC) annual “State of the Arts” report. RACC staff and Board members will share their successes from the last year, including stories about new public art, funded performances, arts education programs, improvements in equity and access, and more. The Council meeting begins at 2pm with a surprise performance!

After RACC’s presentation, we will hear the first annual report from the Arts Oversight Committee (AOC), a public citizen group which oversees the Arts Education & Access Fund income tax.  The AOC will report how nearly $7 million has been invested in our public schools and local arts organizations. The committee will also share their thoughtful recommendations for how to improve tax collection and distribution going forward.

We already know that more than 30,000 children, ages Kindergarten to 5^th grade, are enjoying better arts education in our schools. As Arts Commissioner, Nick is pleased to welcome a special art show to City Hall from April 22 – May 2, showcasing the positive impact of Arts Education & Access Fund tax dollars at work. Thanks to the public school teachers and the student artists for sharing their work with us!

“State of the Arts” – 2pm

Arts Oversight Committee Report – 3pm

Portland City Hall

Council Chambers

Elementary School Art Show

April 22 – May 2, 2014, 8am-5pm

City Hall Atrium

Special reception: April 30, 3:30-5pm

Photo courtesy of Woodlawn School