THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THE ARTS IN TOPEKA!
Whether you have become a recurring donor, made a one time donation or chosen to support the ArtsConnect Artist Relief Fund, you are making a difference. We cannot do our work without support from donors at all levels and we are so grateful. Below, you will find links to all of our programs, or you can CLICK HERE to go back to our home page.
Passion | Leadership | Collaboration | Belonging | Respect | Integrity
All ArtsConnect programs are intended to strengthen and support the creative class in Topeka.
A vital local economy depends on creative individuals and businesses.
Thriving creative industries drive innovation.
CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS
This series of events offers an opportunity for creative individuals to connect, network and learn. These events feature an interview with an artist who offers insight into their respective field – with an emphasis on the challenges and lessons they’ve learned. This series began in 2018 and has featured visual artists, musicians, dancers and film-makers. This program is assigned to the Events & Programs Committee.
TOPARTS GRANT PROGRAM
This program supports initiatives that increase access to arts education opportunities, cultural events and public art. Funding is focused on fostering both emerging and existing arts programs in Topeka. This program is funded with dollars from the City General Fund and ArtsConnect administers the program on behalf of the city.
ARTY
AWARDS
Since 2011, the Arty Awards have served to highlight the significant depth of artists and art programs in Topeka. Supporting artists and helping them to broaden their audience is a critical result of this annual event. The Arty Awards serves as a fundraiser to support ArtsConnect operations and continues to help us realize our goal of being the premier arts engagement organization in Topeka. It is an important opportunity to connect ArtsConnect and artists with corporate partners.
FIRST FRIDAY
ARTWALK
The First Friday Artwalk supports artists and local businesses by creating a “top of mind” community-wide event that provides an opportunity for Topeka residents and visitors to explore new parts of Topeka and discover new artists working in a variety of disciplines. For more than a decade, the First Friday Artwalk has offered support for the NOTO Arts District and downtown business districts as they have been re-energized and renovated.
PUBLIC ART
GUIDE
Murals make Topeka safer and more beautiful. ArtsConnect is the only organization in Topeka which has the capacity to paint large scale public artwork on an ongoing basis. These works of art support our creative neighborhoods, decrease crime, increase economic viability and give us all something positive to talk about.
TOPEKA MURAL
PROJECT
The TopArts Grant Program is funded by the City of Topeka and administered by ArtsConnect. This program increases access to arts education and activities and another which supports the creation and maintenance of public works of art. In 2016-2020 combined, more than $155,000 has been granted into the community, reaching thousands of Topekans directly.
FUNDRAISING
The ArtsConnect board of directors and staff will be responsible for raising funds sufficient to meet the organizational budget.
GOVERNANCE
The ArtsConnect board will function within the bylaws and policies that govern organizational operations.
OPERATIONS
ArtsConnect will have sufficient staff and operational capacity to successfully implement and execute the strategic plan, committee work plans and other work to realize our mission and vision as an organization.
