Inspiring connection, one community at a time.
At ArtsGaston, we are passionate about enriching the lives of Gaston County residents through the power of the arts. Our mission is to support and empower local artists and creative organizations, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. We achieve this through grant funding, robust arts advocacy, and fostering connections within our community.
We believe that art has the power to transform communities, enhance quality of life, and bring people together. That’s why we work tirelessly to promote public art, advocate for creative initiatives, and educate the public about the incredible artists who call Gaston County home. By connecting artists with local opportunities and raising awareness about the arts, we aim to make Gaston County a more vibrant, culturally rich place to live.
Our vision is to see a thriving arts community in Gaston County where creativity is celebrated, artists are supported, and public art is an integral part of our daily lives. We are committed to fostering a culturally dynamic and connected community, where the arts are accessible to everyone and creativity flourishes.
Join us in our journey to make Gaston County a beacon of artistic expression and cultural vitality. Together, we can create a brighter, more vibrant future through the arts.
History
In 1979, recognizing the transformative power of the arts to inspire, connect, and enrich lives, the Gaston County Chamber of Commerce (now the Gaston Business Association) and the local business community formed a strategic partnership that led to the creation of the United Arts Council of Gaston County. From its earliest days, the Council’s mission has been to foster, promote, and enhance public knowledge and appreciation of the arts and sciences through education, cultural programming, and community engagement. Over the decades, we have sponsored a wide range of performances, exhibitions, workshops, and classes, offering residents opportunities to experience and participate in the arts, all while celebrating Gaston County’s rich cultural heritage.
Today, ArtsGaston remains dedicated to expanding its reach, building robust partnerships with businesses, schools, individuals, and foundations to strengthen the arts ecosystem in our region. Through these vital collaborations, we are focused on making the arts more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that people from all walks of life can engage with the transformative experiences the arts provide. Whether through innovative programs, cultural events, or educational initiatives, we continue our commitment to enriching the lives of Gaston County residents and creating a vibrant, creative community for future generations.
Land Acknowledgement
ArtsGaston respectfully acknowledges that we gather and create on the ancestral homelands of the Catawba Nation and the Cherokee peoples, whose enduring connection to this region continues today. We honor their history, resilience, and contributions to the cultural fabric of our community, and we recognize the generations of Indigenous peoples who have cared for this land before us and continue to do so.
As an organization dedicated to strengthening community through the arts, we acknowledge that many stories have historically been overlooked or excluded. We are committed to listening, learning, and creating opportunities that celebrate the full diversity of voices, histories, and cultures that shape Gaston County. May this acknowledgment serve not only as a statement of respect, but as an ongoing commitment to fostering creativity, understanding, and belonging for all.
Where Our Funding Comes From:
Our funding comes from a diverse range of sources, each playing a vital role in supporting our mission to enrich and promote the arts in Gaston County. Our funding sources include:
North Carolina Arts Council: We receive grants and support from the North Carolina Arts Council, which enables us to fund various programs, projects, and initiatives that benefit our local arts community.
Corporate Donations: Generous contributions from corporate partners and sponsors provide essential financial support. These donations often support specific events, exhibitions, or educational programs that engage our community.
Local Foundations: We are fortunate to receive funding from local foundations that share our commitment to fostering creativity and expanding access to the arts in Gaston County.
Private Donations: Individuals who are passionate about the arts contribute through private donations. Their support helps sustain our operations, fund scholarships, and expand our outreach programs.
Memberships: Our new membership base will play a crucial role in funding our ongoing programs and activities. Membership fees provide critical financial support while offering members exclusive benefits such as access to workshops, exhibitions, and networking events.
Local Municipalities: Currently, we are actively seeking funding from local municipalities to further enhance our programs and expand our reach within the community. This additional support will enable us to increase access to the arts, develop new cultural initiatives, and provide more opportunities for artistic expression across Gaston County.
Together, these funding sources enable ArtsGaston to foster creativity, promote cultural enrichment, and enhance the quality of life for residents of Gaston County through diverse arts experiences. We are deeply grateful to our funding partners, donors, members, and community supporters who make our work possible.