Who We Are

Our History

Since 1962 the Arts Council has served the arts needs of the community. So much has happened to improve the cultural life of our community since then. In addition to its own arts programming, the High Point Arts Council is a united arts council with five affiliated arts organizations under its umbrella: Carousel Theatre, HP Ballet, HP Community Theatre, HP Community Concerts, and Piedmont Artists. Together, these arts organizations contribute to the quality of life where we live, work, and play.
Deleted: The Arts Council also partners with other nonprofits and schools through its outgoing grant programs to ensure that the arts are accessible to everyone in the High Point area.

timeline

View Timeline Events

1960s

1962: High Point Arts Council opens for business.

1970s

1970: Day in the Park begins multicultural fall festival.
1976: United Arts Fund Drive launches campaign.
1978: Grassroots Grants fund arts-based community projects.

1980s

1983: Jazz’Sprit offers free outdoor jazz concert series.
1986: Pops in the Park provides symphonic concerts.
1987: Teacher Arts Grants Program supports arts education.

2000s

2002: John Coltrane Jazz workshop inspires future musicians.
2003: Arts Splash enriches our community with free outdoor summer concerts.
2005: High Point Children’s and Youth Chorales and Youth Jazz Orchestra nurtures young singers and musicians.
2009: High Point Celebration Band celebrates city’s 150th birthday.
2010: African drum circles added to arts education programs.

2010s

2012: Arts Council celebrates 50th Anniversary and purchases Centennial Station for first permanent Arts Center in High Point.
2013: Arts Council launches arts and entertainment series at Centennial Station.

Arts Awards

Each year, the Arts Awards Committee of the High Point Arts Council seeks nominations for awards to be made at the Arts Awards Banquet. The Arts Awards recognize businesses and individuals that have demonstrated excellence and commitment in support of the arts in the High Point area.
View past Arts Award recipients

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Our Mission

Our mission is to work continually to enhance the lives of all citizens of our community ensuring the availability of a broad range of cultural and artistic activities and encouraging full community participation in them.

Board Members

Tom Blount, Chair
Carlos Olvera, Chair Elect
Steve Ilderton, Past Chair
Becky Wray, Treasurer
Kim Shoemaker, Secretary
Joyce Allen
John Bencini
Allison Crowley
Sadie Leder Elder
Joe Gray
Al Guecia
Mark Harris
Raven Jefferson
Gene Johnson
Jonathan Keeler
Colten Marble
David McCoy
Jim Morgan
Deborah Walsh
Martha Yarborough