Arts Council A-Z | NC Arts Council

SmART Communities

See how we transform downtowns and fuel sustainable economic development.

Spark the Arts

Spark the Arts is an awareness campaign designed to inspire public participation in the arts across North Carolina by highlighting the unique way the arts lift spirits, bring people together, and heal.

Come Hear NC

From Thelonious Monk and Link Wray to Doc Watson and Nina Simone, North Carolinians have made groundbreaking contributions to many of America's most important musical genres. Today new generations of North Carolina musician are building on this legacy by making their own mark on music.

Arts Across NC Podcast

With the help of artists, arts organizations, and arts leaders from all across North Carolina, we are telling the stories of mental struggles, canceled performances, and difficult decisions. The past two years also include stories about innovation, hope, and moments of profound connection.

Listen to the latest Podcast

Arts in Education

We expand education and put creativity at the center of youth development through the A+ Schools of North Carolina program, grants, Poetry Out Loud, and our Traditional Arts Programs for Students (TAPS).

Valuing Artists

Through our North Carolina Heritage Award, North Carolina Poet Laureate, we offer grants for artists in recognition of exceptional work.

Cultural Trails

Explore N.C.’s rich music traditions through our nationally recognized Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina and African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina.