The Mercer Island Arts Council was established in 1985. Its mission is to nurture, promote, and support high-quality cultural arts activities for the community.

The goals of the Arts Council are:
 

• Advocate the arts, artists and arts organizations of Mercer Island.
• Stimulate community awareness and enjoyment of the fine arts.
• Promote community education, awareness and enjoyment of the arts.
• Support performing, visual and literary arts programs, projects and events.

Committees of the Arts Council, working with the support of Parks and Recreation staff, provide community activities such as art galleries, concerts and plays and literary events as well as support local artists with grants and acquire public art for the City.
 

Highlights

Click here for a listing of current Programs and Special Events

Literary Info
The Mercer Island Literary Program (MILP), a partnership beween the Arts Council and the library now in its sixth year, includes programs such as Shakespeare and Friends and Classics on Film.

I-90 Outdoor Sculpture Gallery
Purchase a beautiful sculpture!

Public Art
Much of Mercer Island's public art has been acquired through the Mercer Island "One Percent for Art", money that is set aside from public construction projects, and through public donations.

Community Center Gallery
View and purchase beautiful art!

Mostly Music in the Park

Programs & Special Events:  Shakespeare in the Park, Classics on Film
 

Financial Assistance Program to Support Community Arts:

Due to budget shortfalls, grants are on hold and will not be accepted for 2011.
 

Member Info

Eleven volunteer citizens comprise the board which is staffed by the Parks and Recreation Department. To find out more about these committees, contact the Chair (see below). Volunteers needed! Members are appointed to four-year terms by the Mayor, and confirmed by the City Council. A City Councilmember serves as liaison to the group.

The Arts Council members should be able to commit an estimated eight hours of time each month to board activities. Members should possess a broad perspective on the arts, must be willing to facilitate an event that may require a relatively large time commitment for a short period.

Click here to see our current Arts Council Members