Topics Related to Arts Across NC

Header image: Michelle Burrows receives the Secretary's Award of Excellence. From left: N.C. DNCR Chief Deputy Secretary Maggie Thompson, N.C. Arts Council Executive Director Jeff Bell, Michelle Burrows, and Secretary Pamela Cashwell. Photo courtesy of DNCR 

Michelle Burrows recently concluded her tenure as senior program director for arts learning at the North Carolina Arts Council. We can’t let this milestone pass without looking back at the profound impact she’s had on the agency’s education programs for two decades. 

Header image: Volunteers help children with craft at 19th Annual African American Cultural Celebration. Photo by Eric Blevins, courtesy of the DNCR 

Header image: students from Mary McArthur Elementary. Image courtesy of Mary McArthur Elementary

In 1995, A+ Schools of North Carolina launched whole-school arts integration by partnering with 25 pioneering schools. Today, we’re revisiting some of those trailblazers who, 30 years later, continue to innovate with A+ Schools.

North Carolina’s statewide network of artists and local arts organizations has fostered a vibrant culture that makes the state a great place to live, work, and visit. Through our grants, the North Carolina Arts Council actively invests in and sustains this creative community.

Explore the updated grant guidelines for the FY2026–2027 grant cycle to learn about available opportunities, eligibility requirements, and how to apply and report

Header image: American Indian Heritage Commission Director Kerry Bird and 2025/26 Miss Indian North Carolina Page Freeman at the American Indian Heritage Celebration on November 22. Photo by Andie Freeman / North Carolina Arts Council

Header image: At the Community First premiere of We Lift Each Other in Asheville, Black Box Dance Theatre founding member and U.S. Army veteran Alfredo Hurtado led performers in signing “Show Up” during the curtain call. Photos by Solaris Foto / Dave & Niki McMahan, and courtesy of Black Box Dance Theatre

Thirty years ago, visionary leaders launched A+ Schools of North Carolina after recognizing the powerful role the arts were playing in classrooms. Drawing from their diverse life experiences, these leaders came together to shape and grow a model of arts-integrated education—one that would evolve into the whole-school transformation approach that A+ Schools represents today. 

Header image: Craft Your Commerce book club. Image courtesy of Mountain Bizworks

It’s time to get into the holiday spirit and #shoplocal to support our North Carolina communities! 

Artists and artisans work hard all year but at the holidays, they really show up to share their beautiful work. Visit events across the state in November and December to enjoy and support the arts!

Header image:  Santos de palo figurines.Photo courtesy of the Mint Museum