What We Do
The British Columbia Arts Council is an independent agency that supports arts and cultural activity in communities across British Columbia. From professional dance companies, to art galleries, local museums and music festivals – the Council works to enrich the lives of British Columbians in virtually every community in the province.
Created by the BC Arts Council Act, passed in 1995 and proclaimed in 1996, the Council supports a range of activities that includes funding for professional artists and arts organizations, community initiatives, training and scholarships. The Council also acts as an advocate for the Arts in B.C., provides public education and conducts research that helps inform provincial arts policies.
Mandate
To support the arts and cultural community by providing financial assistance, research, advocacy, and public education.
Mission
Engage all British Columbians in a healthy arts and cultural community that is recognized for excellence. To carry out this mission, the Council:
- Consults with artists, arts and cultural organizations, governments and other interested communities.
- Distributes annual funding allocated by the Legislature.
- Supports arts and culture through public education, conducting research, advocacy and awarding grants, as well as providing information on the Council and arts and culture in British Columbia.
Core Values
- Artistic excellence in all art forms.
- A vibrant arts and cultural community in the creation of a healthy society.
- Inclusiveness and the fullest possible reflection of the province’s Aboriginal and cultural diversity.
- Encouragement of artistic activity from established to emerging and from traditional to experimental.
- Administrative and adjudicative processes which are transparent and which adhere to the principles of accountability, independence, recognition of merit, and equality of opportunity.
- Clear goals, developed in consultation with the arts and cultural community, to guide long and short-term operations.
Goals
- Artistic Achievement: Excellence, creativity and diversity in B.C.’s arts and cultural sector are recognized and encouraged.
- Sector Capacity: Arts and cultural organizations are thriving and sustainable.
- Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in arts and cultural activities are available throughout the province.
- Organizational Effectiveness: Administrative, evaluative and policy development processes are effective and efficient.