RACC Grantee Opera in the Park (2024) playing amongst the roses in Peninsula Park. Photos by The Weekend Photographer.

Amidst shifting landscapes, one thing remains clear — our role in the regional arts ecosystem is evolving to better reflect our communities’ needs. Our efforts this year have built momentum for the future, listening and responding to critical shifts within the arts and cultural sector. 

The need for coalition building and active networking has never been more urgent. Regional arts leaders, organizations, and artists must collaborate with one another to build stronger, more resilient frameworks that support cultural production and access to the arts. As we look to 2025, it’s clear that the arts community must actively drive conversations about equitable arts and culture in our region. 

While our role has historically been one of service and connection, the moment has come for us to step up as leaders in regional advocacy. We are taking on central stewardship roles, facilitating conversations around policy, funding, and engagement across the region. RACC is positioned to not only convene these efforts but to actively foster them through dedicated outreach, programs, and relationship-building with new and existing partners.

Stepping into our new role as a convener and networker within the regional arts ecosystem, we’re more deeply engaging with the Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon (CACO) and the Cultural Framework planning group, and assuming leadership of Arts for All. These roles and projects will help us continue to create more dynamic, community-centered public art spaces and initiatives, while fostering ongoing dialogue between artists, city officials, local residents, and stage policy makers.

Learn more about how we are responding here.

RACC Grantee Opera in the Park (2024), La Traviata Final Bow. Photos by The Weekend Photographer.

Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro,OR-WA ranks 17th amongst the most arts-vibrant large communities in the nation, according to the national arts research center SMU Data Arts. Now in its ninth year, these annual rankings are based on the Arts Vibrancy Index (AVI), which evaluates 13 unique metrics covering aspects of supply, demand, and public support for arts and culture, adjusted for cost of living and population density. 

Our region also ranks in the top 2% nationwide for total compensation paid to those working in arts and culture — showcasing the creativity, passion, and dedication of our community’s artists and cultural stewards, along with the strong support of you, our audiences and advocates.

For decades, RACC has championed the power of art as a resource for community well-being and economic vitality. While these metrics are comprehensive, we know that this data does not cover the entirety of the vast breadth of arts and culture that exists in our region. We continue to advocate for more equitable access and inclusion in arts and culture. Our processes are rooted in our values, continuously iterating our programming based on community feedback and needs.  

RACC Grantee Opera in the Park (2024) at Peninsula Park. Photos by The Weekend Photographer.

Art doesn’t just inspire—it connects us. At RACC, we work tirelessly to protect and celebrate the arts. We fund emerging artists, bring art to underserved communities, and advocate for cultural equity. But the challenges are real—funding cuts and rising costs put this vital work at risk.

Your end-of-year gift will help us continue to:

“During the challenging times of the Covid epidemic, when most opportunities for artists were suspended, RACC's funding became a lifeline for me. Thanks to their unwavering support, I could continue making artwork, finding solace and inspiration amidst uncertainty. Their belief in the value of art as a catalyst for healing and resilience allowed me to keep my practice alive.” – (Orquidia)

RACC will not waver from investing in artists and the arts because of the impact that investment will have on making our communities more vibrant and art more accessible. We need your help—when you invest in RACC, you fuel the creativity and connection that make our communities thrive.

Make a Difference with a Gift Today

The arts give us so much. Let’s give back.

Arts and culture are the heartbeat of our region, helping us reflect who we are and what we stand for. For decades, RACC has believed in the power of art as a resource for community well-being and economic vitality, providing tailored services, growing a nationally acclaimed public art program, and facilitating career-changing opportunities. 

Created by community, for community, RACC remains dedicated to protecting, celebrating, and sustaining arts and culture in our region. We invite you to join us in creating space for arts and culture in every neighborhood. The time to evolve is now, and we want you to be a part of our future.