Arts AVL

Connection- In early 2023, ArtsAVL launched a new microsite which includes an arts directory, events and opportunities pages. The goal is to connect residents and visitors to arts businesses and professionals throughout our community. ArtsAVL is also making it easy to explore Asheville's art scene while supporting arts businesses by launching the ArtsAVL Connect Trolley program. This free service links key arts destinations in Downtown Asheville and the River Arts Districts. Data shows a marked increase in both patronage and sales on trolley days.

Grants- In FY23, ArtsAVL regranted $259,363 through 76 grants. This means approximately 40% of ArtsAVL FY23 budget was regranted in FY23. For perspective, ArtsAVL regranted $128,743 through 71 grants in FY22. That is a 50% increase in grant awards from FY22 to FY23. ArtsAVL grants include the Arts Build Community grant, Grassroots Arts Program, Artist Support Grant, and Teaching Artists Presenting in Asheville Area Schools program. Major funding support for these grants came from the North Carolina Arts Council and Buncombe County Government. 61% of FY23 grants were awarded to underserved communities either by race, location, or other special needs, and 34% of FY23 grants were awarded to BIPOC led organizations or artists.

Advocacy- In addition to annual Creative Economy reporting, ArtsAVL partnered with Americans for the Arts on the 6th nationwide Arts & Economic Prosperity Study- the results of which were published in October 2023. ArtsAVL also held a series of four ArtsAVL Town Hall events which focused on the election and introduced the new State of the Arts Brunch event. The Brunch celebrates our creative side while demonstrating the major role the arts play in Buncombe County. Additionally, ArtsAVL advocated for the continuation of the City's strategic event partnership funding and increased state funding support for the arts.