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Mission Statement:
The Mission of the Steamboat Springs Arts Council is to plan, produce and promote programs and initiatives in the arts and humanities in the Yampa Valley .
Vision Statement:
The vision of the Steamboat Springs Arts Council is to be acknowledged locally and among our peers as the premier leader, resource and advocate for the arts and humanities.
History:
The Steamboat Springs Arts Council was created in 1972 by a group of local citizens determined to preserve the Depot and to utilize this building as a community arts resource. Constructed in 1909, the Depot was used for passenger rail service through 1968, then was deeded to the city by the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad. The Depot received National Register of Historic Places designation in 1978. In 1980, the building was condemned by the city, and a "Save the Depot" group, led by Eleanor Bliss, managed to rehabilitate the building for use. Several renovation projects have transpired since.
In addition to our main role as producer of art and cultural events, the Steamboat Springs Arts Council serves as an advisor/advocate for over 30 affiliated organizations. The Arts Council is a frequent collaborator with affiliates in programming, and assists them with administrative needs, thus enhancing our own role as a service organization.
In 1990, the Arts Council was awarded a National Endowment Agency grant, matched 2-1 by the City of Steamboat Springs, to develop and begin implementation of a community cultural policy plan, which included integrating the arts into the fabric of the community. The grant requirements were completed in 1995, and, as part of the grant, a Master Plan for Culture and Livability was developed. The plan's goals are:
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To promote and present programs that encourage preservation, interpretation and enhancement of the natural beauty, the man-made environment and the cultural heritage and diversity of the area. |
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To produce quality arts and cultural programs and services in appropriate facilities for the most possible residents and visitors. |
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To develop a strong, effective and cooperative network of cultural organizations. |
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To develop a climate and conditions which encourage and nurture individuals with artistic talents. |
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To provide abundant educational opportunities for students and adults to learn about and appreciate the cultural richness of their community and the world. |
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To promote cultural development as a viable economic development effort. |
Currently the Steamboat Springs Arts Council is one of the largest per capita community arts councils in the state, with over 600 members and 100 volunteers. We host an average of 10 gallery shows per year, and the Depot is used daily for affiliate, artist, community and private functions.
The Future:
To further advance the goals of the Master Plan for Culture and Livability, the Steamboat Springs Arts Council is actively involved in numerous community initiatives, including the development of a community visual and performing arts center, and arts-based economic development. We continue to expand our role in the area of art and cultural programming and service to our affiliated organizations. The Arts Council, in a respected leadership role, is currently represented in local planning and policy issues to assist in maintaining the character and quality of life in our fast-growing resort community. |
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