The Arts Commission
The Arts Commission
The Arts Commission
The Arts Commission
The arts commission strengthens our community, fosters creativity and celebrates life through art.
Who We Are
Since 1959, The Arts Commission has provided quality arts programming and services to the metropolitan Toledo area. The Arts Commission is the longest-standing arts commission in the state of Ohio. Since 1977, The Arts Commission has managed the City of Toledo's 1% for Art ordinance, the first public art program of its kind in Ohio and the inspiration for the state's own program. The Arts Commission works to build a creative and cultural community in Toledo, inspire vibrancy in our neighborhoods, and to celebrate life through art.
What We Do
The Arts Commission supports, promotes and connects visual, performing, and literary artists, arts organizations and businesses; and administers the City of Toledo’s 1% for Art ordinance. We take pride in serving and connecting regional artists and the general public to information and opportunities that inspire a creative life. Through innovative programming, public art, artist services, inclusive youth programs, and community events – we aim to inspire a vibrant community in Toledo.
Upcoming Events Full Calendar
“The most meaningful part of yaaw was being able to contribute to a struggling community by making it more beautiful.”
Inspired
The Arts Commission advocates to Inspire a Vibrant Community in Toledo. We believe support for artists and creatives in our region is essential to the greater Toledo area's revitalization, sense of place, and commitment to a brighter future. Through collaboration and community conversation we achieve innovative resources and programming that serve Toledo.
Creative
The arts are the heart and soul of our community. By fostering access to arts, creativity, and professional development for all artists and creatives in our area, at all skill levels, and from all walks of life, we encourage a more honest, diverse, and engaging interaction with our city, for residents and guests alike.
Relevant
Our work is vital to helping build a new and better future for our city. From creating a more fertile ground for the arts to grow and develop, to providing access to fun, creativity, and new opportunities, Toledo's art and artists are at the center of driving a sense of community and enriching our neighborhoods, while fostering a creative economy that contributes to our sense of revitalization.
Inspiring a Vibrant Toledo
Hot Glass
Celebrating the Glass City's Legacy
The Hot Glass Exhibition and Gala Auction is The Arts Commission’s signature fall fundraiser and the region’s largest exhibition and auction event for original glass art. Hot Glass 2019 brings together artists and arts patrons to celebrate Toledo’s heritage as the Glass City and the birthplace of the studio glass movement. The event gathers original creations of leading glass artists from around the world for auction and raises funds to benefit The Arts Commission’s activities and programs. The 2019 Hot Glass Gallery Exhibition will feature more than 100 original works in glass which will be displayed October 7 through November 7 and culminate in a gala auction on November 8.
Art Loop
Every Third Thursday, April - December, 5:30-9:00 pm
Art Loop is Toledo's signature monthly arts experience. Each third Thursday of the month, April - December from 5:30-9 p.m. the Art Loop offers a unique celebration of the area's creative community, with open studios, galleries, exhibitions, and local creative businesses. The Art Loop features special visual arts exhibitions, live music and performances, literary arts, and youth- and family-friendly activities each month through Downtown Toledo. Art Loops are free to attend and all are welcome. Hop aboard a Loop bus for just $1.25 and get unlimited rides to all venues all evening long. Join us at the Main Library (325 N. Michigan) at the Art Loop Hub for convenient parking, the Art Loop info table, service to all bus lines, entertainment, and more!
Art in Public Places
A Legacy of Celebrating Place
Toledo is home to Ohio's first 1% for Art program and boasts an impressive collection of more than 50 large-scale public artworks from both local and internationally recognized and acclaimed artists. The Arts Commission has managed the City of Toledo's public art collection since 1977 and continues to offer innovative opportunities for local artists and oversee large-scale infrastructure installations, sculptures, and more. Check out our interactive public art map and learn more about this history of this landmark program.
