About RACC

We connect artists and creatives to opportunity and access. An independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Regional Arts & Culture Council supports the creative economy in greater Portland by providing equitable funding and services to artists, creatives, and art organizations; managing and growing a diverse, nationally–acclaimed public art program; and developing enduring public and private partnerships. Through advocacy and engagement, we are building community support for artists, creatives, arts-serving organizations, and arts educators, ensuring a thriving region for arts and culture. 

We activate and engage, connecting artists and creatives to opportunity and access. 

Detail from, We are Still Here, Kayin Talton Davis with Cleo Davis, 2020. Lizzie Weeks Room, Portland Building.

Our Mission:

To enrich our communities through arts and culture.

Our Vision:

A thriving region, powered by creativity, with arts and culture in every neighborhood.

Our Values:

  • Accessibility – Inclusion, simplicity, and ease
  • Advocacy – Visibility, resources, and impact
  • Equity –  Racial justice and representation in services and investments
  • Diversity – Of art forms and artistic traditions
  • Community – For belonging, support, and connection
  • Innovation – Testing and adapting; finding new ways to deliver value.

How we Support our Community:

We provide service to our partners and the public in five key areas:

  • Through advocacy and engagement, we help build support for a strong arts and culture community.
  • We provide artists and arts organizations financial support through operating support, project grants, and commissions.
  • Our nationally acclaimed public art program integrates a wide range of art in public places. RACC manages Percent for Art programs for the City of Portland and Multnomah county.
  • We provide community services, including education programs, workshops  for artists, fundraising for artists and arts organizations, and online resources.
  • Our arts education program supports arts educators through direct advocacy, engagement, and professional development. We host artlook®oregon to better support a well-rounded arts education for all K-12 students centering equity, access, and inclusion.

Accessibility Statement

RACC’s Strategic Framework 2020-22

Staff and RACC’s Board of Directors adopted a Strategic Framework 2020-22 in June 2020 with the following five high-level goals:

  • Goal 1: Build an equitable, innovative, and sustainable organization
  • Goal 2: Increase Access
  • Goal 3: Advocate for Arts & Culture
  • Goal 4: Diversify & Increase Resources
  • Goal 5: Drive Innovation & Partnership

Learn more about RACC’s goals, objectives and how we can work together, now and in the future.