Arizona Commission on the Arts

This document is the Fiscal Year 2025 summary report for the Arizona Commission on the Arts, detailing the agency's activities, funding, and the initiation of a strategic planning process. It highlights the awarding of nearly $2.8 million in grants to support arts organizations, festivals, and learning programs. The report also outlines the launch of AZArts GPS, a public engagement initiative designed to inform the agency's strategic direction for the next five years, emphasizing the arts and culture sector's role in strengthening communities, driving economic growth, and enhancing well-being across Arizona.

The 5-Year Strategic Plan for the Arizona Commission on the Arts, covering Fiscal Years 2015-2019, outlines a roadmap to ensure all Arizonans can participate in and experience the arts. It addresses five key strategic issues: enhancing capacity for arts delivery agents, valuing arts and culture sector workers, strengthening statewide investment in arts learning, fostering community-focused arts and cultural partnerships, and increasing private investment in arts and culture. The plan leverages leadership, partnerships, comprehensive programs and services, and strategic funding to achieve its goals.

The meeting was convened for an Executive Session, followed by a public discussion regarding complaints against Anne L'Ecuyer. Concerns were raised about interactions with L'Ecuyer and her approach to information requests. L'Ecuyer addressed the board, questioning the meeting's format and requesting the identification of those who complained. A motion was made and carried to terminate the Commission's contract with Anne L'Ecuyer, effective immediately.

This strategic planning report outlines the Arizona Commission on the Arts' long-term direction, focusing on ensuring operational viability and consistent support for the state's arts and culture sector. Key strategic pillars include securing reliable, ongoing General Fund appropriations to cover operational costs and mandatory adjustments, maintaining consistent grantmaking levels for nonprofit arts organizations and artists, developing a comprehensive Arizona Arts and Health Plan, and establishing a Tribal Cultural Investment Program. The plan aims to foster economic growth, improve education, enhance healthcare access through arts integration, and support the cultural continuity and economic sustainability of Native artists and Tribal Cultural Entities across Arizona.

The meeting included an Executive Director's report, a review of the FY2023 year-to-date budget, and a media report. There was a presentation on grantmaking, including statewide access to the arts, strategies for listening, story gathering, and research. Community panelist recommendations were presented and approved for FY24 Arts Learning Grants, Festival Grants, and Creative Capacity Grants. Partner presentations were given by the UA Poetry Center/Poetry Out Loud and Southwest Folklife Alliance. Discussions were held regarding the Executive Director Search, governance, and the FY24/25 Budget Development Timeline. A legislative update was provided, and the meeting was adjourned.