Arts & Humanities

Washington County has a strong and vibrant Arts & Humanities sector, which reflects the community’s past, present, and future. Museums, libraries, performing arts, visual arts, music, and historic sites each add to the diverse range of organizations that comprise this scene. There is strong interest and dedication from audiences and community members, as well as recognition that these organizations are core community assets.

Among the nonprofits of the community, the Washington County Heritage Alliance is facilitating group marketing and group development efforts. The free museum day was a result of a collaborative grant request.

Impact

Arts & Humanities groups play an important role in the vitality of Washington County through entertainment, education, tourism, employment, the local economy, as well as inclusion.

Strengths

• Local Talent
• Diversity
• Community Support
• Volunteers
• Creativity
• Supportive Partnerships

Challenges

Washington County faces unique challenges as a rural community. The location of services and availability of transportation directly impact access to arts and cultural opportunities. At this time, centralized, shared arts venues are limited. Additionally, small staff sizes, production costs, and inflation present their own set of obstacles, especially for the small, grass-roots organizations that are part of the sector. These factors also play a role in the need for expanding consistent financial support. And with an aging volunteer base, arts and cultural organizations are acutely aware of the urgency of connecting with members of younger demographics who value local history and heritage.

As Washington County continues to grow and evolve, so too must these local Arts & Humanities organizations in order to better serve an ever-changing demographic and socioeconomic community.