Outdoor concert with a large audience seated on grass and chairs, stage with purple lighting, some tents, and buildings in the background during sunset.

WHAT WE DO

Our Mission

Building community through the arts.

A woman standing in an art gallery, taking a photo of a colorful, abstract circular painting on a white brick wall. The gallery displays other framed artworks, and there are paintings with flowers and green scenes on the walls.

The Arts Council is dedicated to enriching Northeast Georgia through a comprehensive focus on the arts. We achieve this by: 

  • We offer a wide range of programs spanning performing, visual, literary arts, and film. 

  • We actively promote and provide programs and services that highlight diverse cultural arts.

  • We champion the arts at local, regional, and state levels to ensure their continued support and growth.

  • We promote the arts by advocating for other regional cultural institutions. 

  • We offer outreach services to make the arts accessible to a broader audience. 

  • We provide engaging arts education programs specifically designed for children. 

  • We serve as the owner, operations and restorations manager, and guardian of The Arts Council’s facilities, ensuring their upkeep and availability for the community. 

We present a wide range of visual, performing, literary, and multicultural arts experiences. We advocate for the arts at every level, support arts education, promote local affiliates, and preserve two historic venues in Gainesville that serve as vibrant cultural hubs.

A Legacy of Arts and Impact

What began as a grassroots movement in the 1970s has grown into one of Georgia’s leading nonprofit arts organizations. Here's how The Arts Council has evolved:

Our History
  • Black and white photo of a large, two-story brick building with multiple windows, a sloped roof, and wooden support beams along the front. Several parked cars are in front, and power lines are visible overhead.

    1970s

    Founded by a passionate group of local women to bring arts programming to Gainesville. Early events were hosted in homes, churches, and schools.

  • Iron gate with brick pillars marking the entrance to the Swarthmore Arts Center under a blue sky.

    1980s-1990s

    Received donation of the historic train depot from the Smithgall family. Renovated and expanded into a community arts venue.

  • A group of school children and two adult teachers posing for a photo on the steps of a brick building under a clear blue sky.

    2000s

    Increased programming and outreach. Supported schools and served as a regranting partner for state arts funding.

  • A group of people participating in a groundbreaking ceremony, shoveling dirt in front of a building.

    2019-2021

    Broke ground on the Smithgall Arts Center Pavilion. Opened in 2021, expanding outdoor performance capacity.

  • Group of seven young people standing outdoors on a sunny day in front of a graffiti-covered sculpture and trees.

    Today

    Stewards of two historic venues and leaders in Northeast Georgia’s cultural development — creating inclusive programs that inspire and unite.

Be Part of Our Story

Whether you're attending an exhibit or performance, donating, or hosting an event with us, there are so many ways to get involved. Together, we can keep the arts alive in Northeast Georgia.

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