Public's input sought on state arts programs

The Nevada Arts Council is hosting "Community Conversations" across the state this year to explore the arts and to hear about the needs of communities, artists, organizations and educators.

Teresa Moiola, public information officer for the State of Nevada Department of Cultural Affairs, said the public's opinions will provide valuable information for the council.

"We want to get input from people involved in the arts and education community so we can put together our cultural plan for Nevada," she said. "That plan dictates a lot of how the Arts Council distributes its funds."

Carson City's forum will be 6-8:30 p.m. Monday at the Carson City Community Center. Residents from surrounding counties also are invited to attend.

This process will help shape "Values and Visions: A Cultural Plan for Nevada 2010-2015." Moiola said the council wants to find out what arts programs are available in the community and which ones need assistance.

"If people are interested in community arts organizations and how they get their money, they should attend," Moiola said.

Even those who are not directly involved with the arts, she said, still should attend.

"The arts affect everyone in the community," she said. "Arts are a major part of what makes a community vital."

A Values and Public Comment Survey also is available on the Nevada Arts Council's Web site at www.nevadaculture.org.

Participants can fill out the online survey as well as join the Arts Council for the community conversations.

For a copy of the present Values and Vision Plan or if you have questions, visit the Web site or call 687-6680.

The Nevada Arts Council was founded in 1967 as a state agency charged with developing and promoting the arts in Nevada. Statewide programs include Artists Services, Arts in Education, Community Arts Development, Folklife Program and Grants.

The Arts Council supports the work of Nevada artists, arts organizations and institutions and is funded by the Nevada State Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and other public and private sources.