Purpose, Mission, Vision

OUR PURPOSE:
The conservation and development of the State’s artistic resources are essential to the social, educational, and economic growth of the State of Washington. Artists, works of art and artistic institutions contribute to the quality of life and the general welfare of the citizens of the State, and are an appropriate matter of concern to the government of the State of Washington. (RCW 43.46.005)


OUR MISSION:
The Washington State Arts Commission cultivates a thriving environment for creative expression and appreciation for the arts for the benefit of all (Approved by the Commission in 2001).


WHAT WE DO:
The Washington State Arts Commission advances and supports arts and culture in Washington State through leadership, knowledge, funding, and resources that build participation in and access to the arts. We improve community vitality, aesthetics, and education by supporting high quality arts and arts education endeavors.

 

OUR CORE VALUES:

  • Artistic expression is fundamental to human experience.
  • Excellence, creativity, and integrity are essential in our work and the work we support.
  • Collaboration and partnerships are critical to the way we work.
  • The arts play a significant role in healthy civic dialogue.


OUR VISION:
A Washington where the arts are thriving and celebrated throughout the state – woven into the fabric of vital and vibrant communities.


IN THIS VISION OF WASHINGTON,

  • Every citizen participates in the arts as creator, observer, supporter and learner.
    Artistic opportunities reflect and engage the diverse cultures and aspirations of our communities.
  • Arts organizations and artists have the support they need, and artists are valued as the core of the arts community.
  • Leaders - business, non-profit, government, educational and individual - work together to create a stable financial and social environment in which innovation and creativity thrive.
  • The Washington State Arts Commission is a dedicated and visionary public leader, partner and catalyst; recognized as an asset within state government and by the arts community.

 

TO THIS END,

  • We are connected to and a part of the arts community of our state.
  • We are responsive and flexible; we adapt to new challenges, and the needs of our constituents.
  • We communicate openly and with respect for others.
  • We hold ourselves accountable, do what we say we will do, and work hard to achieve mutually agreed upon results.
  • We celebrate the transformative power and inherent value of the arts.