AAAC HISTORY

Date of incorporation: 1998

History:

The Athens Area Arts Council is Legacy Project of Athens 96, the group that coordinated local activities projects. One of these was the creation of an arts council. After receiving input from the community in a series of public meetings, a Steering Committee was formed to develop a mission statement and draw up by-laws. The first board of directors was installed in January 1998. Seed money from Olympic funds was given to be used in promoting community art projects. The Athens Area Arts Council raises funds primarily through memberships, donations, and an annual fundraiser “Celebrate the Arts.”

Mission/purpose:

Athens Area Arts Council is a non-profit arts organization staffed entirely by volunteers. Its goal is to integrate the artistic resources of the Athens area into our educational system, local economy, and the community’s culture. AAAC is an active advocate for public art and sponsors artistic performances and events that broaden the community exposures to the arts- visual art, film, music, dance, and literature. AAAC also serves as a clearinghouse for information about the arts and provides support services to working artists.