The city of Peoria has reaffirmed its commitment to the arts with the creation of the new 2022 Arts and Culture Plan, which was adopted by the mayor and council Sept. 13.

With a focus on community engagement, best practices and innovative ideas, the plan establishes a vision and outlines priorities for arts programming over the next decade.

“The arts invigorate our public spaces and enrich our lives,” said Mayor Cathy Carlat. “While providing cultural opportunities to our residents, the arts display our unique qualities to those who visit and want to live here. I am proud to have a flourishing and diverse arts community in Peoria.”

This plan incorporates best practices from arts and culture programs around the country to ensure Peoria is delivering world-class opportunities for residents long into its future.

Community engagement is key and this plan includes valuable feedback from residents and stakeholders in the arts community.

• Enhance the distribution of art and ensure geographic equity in the future;
• Provide enriching cultural engagement opportunities for residents and visitors;
• Celebrate the culturally diverse history and future of Peoria;
• Build and grow the food ecosystem;
• Empower and expand the market for local artists and makers;
• Support tourism, both homegrown and beyond.

“The Arts & Culture Plan will guide the city for the next 10 years in supporting the arts in our community, and by finding new and creative opportunities to expand programming and public art for all to enjoy,” said Marylou Stephens, Peoria's director of arts, culture, and library services. “This plan speaks to Peoria’s continued commitment to raising the arts in our community and I am delighted to introduce this plan.”

Peoria’s Arts and Culture program dates to 1987 with the creation of the Peoria Arts Commission, the Percent for the Arts program, and a 2009 Arts Plan. These actions have  guided the delivery of events, enhanced programming, and numerous art installations throughout the city that continue to enhance the cultural and economic value of Peoria.

To learn more about the arts, or to download the Arts and Culture Plan, visit www.peoriaaz.gov/arts.