A Legacy of Art, A Future of Possibility
The Lincoln Arts Council has been a cornerstone of our community for over 56 years, bringing together artists, audiences, and neighborhoods in a shared commitment to creativity and cultural expression. From our humble beginnings, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that the arts remain accessible to everyone in our vibrant city—whether through programs, arts events, or public art projects. As Lincoln has grown, so too has our mission to provide opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the arts.
The Growth of upstart: Empowering Creative Access
One of our proudest achievements in recent years has been the upstart program—designed to break down barriers to arts access and provide artistic opportunities to underserved communities. What began as a small initiative has blossomed into a dynamic network of nearly 100 upstart arts access partnerships. Today, upstart serves more than 10,000 children and adults annually, offering free or low-cost access to arts programs that would otherwise be out of reach for many Lincoln residents.
Through upstart, we’ve been able to bring diverse art forms—from dance and theater to visual arts and music—into schools, community centers, and public spaces. We are proud that this program has become a lifeline for many who might not otherwise have access to the transformative power of the arts.
Annual Events: Celebrating the Arts
Our Annual Arts Festival has become one of the city's most anticipated cultural events, celebrating the best of Lincoln’s artistic talent. What started as an art sale for artists to sell their work has evolved into a weekend long extravaganza that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival provides a platform for emerging and established artists alike, creating opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, community engagement, and interactive art demonstrations. It is an event that highlights the rich diversity of Lincoln’s artistic scene and reflects the community’s passion for creativity and self-expression.
Mayor’s Arts Awards: Honoring Excellence in the Arts
The Mayor’s Arts Awards, another signature program of the Lincoln Arts Council, is dedicated to recognizing the individuals, organizations, and initiatives that make significant contributions to the arts in Lincoln. From visionary artists and educators to community leaders and philanthropists, the awards celebrate the impact that art has on shaping the cultural fabric of our city.
Each year, the Mayor’s Arts Awards honors those who have gone above and beyond in their support of the arts, from pioneering artists who push creative boundaries to advocates who work to ensure that arts access is a priority for all. This recognition has helped elevate the voices of those who contribute to the arts community, inspiring others to get involved and support the cause.
A Legacy of Impact: Reaching Over 10,000 People Annually
As we continue to expand our reach and deepen our impact, the Lincoln Arts Council remains committed to ensuring that the arts are accessible to everyone. Our programs now reach over 10,000 people annually, from young children exploring art for the first time to adults discovering new creative outlets. With nearly 100 upstart arts access partners in neighborhoods across Lincoln, we’ve been able to create a lasting presence that touches every corner of our city.
Whether it’s through Upstart programs, Lincoln Arts Festival, or the Mayor’s Arts Awards, we’ve made great strides in bringing art to the people—and ensuring that art will continue to thrive in our community for generations to come.