Communities in West Virginia and many parts of the country have demonstrated that a robust arts community can be a strong catalyst for economic development and growth.
A successful arts community provides a rich cultural life for all members of the community and supports a “creative economy” by attracting twenty-first century businesses and the educated work force that comes with them.
A successful arts community provides an environment that supports all kinds of businesses including artists and related businesses, attracts tourism and revenue, and provides income and jobs for artists and artisans.
The common element of successful arts communities is an arts council, an independent umbrella organization that supports an organized, active, and broadly cooperative arts community.
In August, 2009, The Berkeley County Arts Council was formed to meet this need. The Berkeley Arts Council will provide unified communication, promotion, support and advocacy for the arts community in Berkeley County, West Virginia.
The Berkeley Arts Council:
