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 One Percent 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 One Percent 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.
Inspiring a Vibrant Toledo
“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.
Lucas County Poet Laureate
Nominations Open May 1
The Lucas County Poet Laureate is a program of Lucas County Commissioners, in partnership with Toledo Lucas County Public Library and The Arts Commission. The Poet Laureate is responsible for promoting the reading, writing, and enjoyment of poetry throughout Lucas County and will undertake one unique and significant project as such during their two-year term. All serious Lucas County writers who are at least 18 years of age, have been a Lucas County resident for one year prior to the nomination deadline, and remain a Lucas County resident through the Poet Laureate term are encouraged to self-nominate, or nominate others. Complete eligibility, requirements, and expectations will be posted no later than May 1.
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
ARTIST DESIGNED SIGNAL BOX WRAPS
In an effort to aesthetically enhance the pedestrian experience in strategic corridors, The Arts Commission is seeking artwork for vinyl-wrapped signal boxes in areas in and around downtown Toledo. Signal box cabinets are found at every intersection that includes a traffic signal. These innocuous metal boxes provide a great opportunity to implement moments of artistic discovery. Accepting submissions through May 4. This project is funded by the City of Toledo One Percent for Art Program and administered by The Arts Commission.
Art Box
Download & View Lessons from Toledo Area Artists
There are plenty of prompts to keep you, family, friends, and neighbors busy this winter! Enjoy two editions of booklets and eleven short videos to inspire creativity.
Resources for Artists During COVID 19 Pandemic
A List of Emergency Resources for Creatives
As COVID-19 changes the landscape for many working artists, we have compiled a list of emergency funding and resources.
