Cultural Plan Update

This fall (2004), the Arts Council of Mendocino County will host a series of six community receptions around the county to unveil "Bridges to the Future," the new Mendocino County Cultural Plan. "What’s different about this plan compared to those in the past," said Anna Kvinsland, Arts Council Executive Director, "is the way in which it utilizes the arts to address our county’s issues while at the same time advocating for artists and arts organizations and expanding their role in the county’s sustainable future." Kvinsland said "The arts are a way in which we can unite–they are a positive and potentially powerful organizing force." Over 100 community members were involved in the creation of this plan, many of whom had never before worked with the arts community.

The receptions are intended for anyone interested in moving forward the arts in this county–artists, arts administrators, business owners, government representatives, parents, educators, students, social service and health care workers. As in the creation of the cultural plan, implementation will require the involvement of many individuals in order to ensure its success. Volunteers will have the opportunity to work on issues and opportunities in their own communities, while at the same time being linked to the county at large through the connection with the ACMC, a county-wide organization. "Bridges to the Future" lists recommendations that require one-time involvement, as well as recommendations that require committee work or a longer-term commitment.

"Bridges to the Future" was recently endorsed and adopted by the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors.

Please come hear about your cultural plan, and get involved in its implementation. Check the schedule below for the reception in your community. Refreshments will be served and copies of the plan will be available.

If you are unable to attend one of the receptions, but would still like to get involved, please contact the Arts Council office at 961-5449 or email director@artsmendocino.org.