Introduction

Dear Constituents:

Welcome to the revised and updated Ohio Arts Council (OAC) Guidelines. During the past six months the OAC staff has engaged in a rigorous examination of all aspects of the Guidelines, each funding program and related application and final report forms. The resulting Guidelines are clearer, more concise and portray the OAC as a purpose-driven agency and they more powerfully describe the benefits of public funding for the arts. Overall there is better alignment across purpose statements, review criteria, application and final report questions. In addition, there have been some changes in eligibility requirements and funding levels in select programs.

Listening to our constituents and the citizens of Ohio has been instrumental to the agency's work. We are about to begin our 2010-2013 strategic planning process. To help us in this endeavor we will be launching a statewide Listening Tour in 14 communities throughout the state in fall 2008 and summer 2009. As a good steward of public tax dollars, the OAC wants to discover what communities large and small value about creativity and the arts and how the arts can strengthen their community. In addition we have begun work on the next State of the Arts Report where we will endeavor to paint the clearest picture of what is really happening in the state artistically and culturally.

In the strategic plan for Ohio recently released by the Department of Development, Governor Strickland states, "We can give our economy a major boost by seeing what we have and remembering what we are capable of." In this critical time, a strong arts infrastructure makes Ohio a desirable place to live and work, helps the state reinvigorate its communities and contributes to an education system that makes our students competitive in the global workforce. Ohio's arts and cultural organizations make crucial contributions to the diversity and vitality of Ohio's economy and quality of life. We have a legacy of innovation and excellence and together we can work to create a more prosperous future.

Our work is a partnership with you, your organization and your community. A grant from the Ohio Arts Council is a strategic investment in our state's infrastructure. Through our partnership with you we can build sustainable, connected and vibrant communities that retain and attract the most talented workforce for both the nonprofit and for profit sectors.

These Guidelines represent only the beginning of our conversation with you. We encourage you to read the new version carefully and, if you have any questions, to contact us at any time - pick up the phone; drop us an e-mail; arrange a visit. We are here to help you. We do this not only through grant consultations, but through listening, providing suggestions, information resources and networking. Together we will enrich the lives of all Ohioans and make our communities vibrant places to live, work and learn.

Susan Saxbe, Chair, Ohio Arts Council Board
Julie S. Henahan, Executive Director, Ohio Arts Council