Waco Cultural Arts Fest

Overview

Waco Cultural Arts Fest, known by its doing business as (DBA) name Cultural Arts of Waco, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting the diverse artistic and cultural life of Waco, Texas. Established in 2004, the organization aims to develop and enrich the community's cultural capacity while championing the economic, social, and educational benefits of the arts[1][2].

Mission and Vision

The mission of Waco Cultural Arts Fest is to engage and enrich its diverse community by providing arts programming and cultural activities[5]. Its vision includes celebrating the community's artistic and cultural diversity, developing its cultural capacity, and promoting the various benefits of the arts[2][5].

Activities and Programs

Waco Cultural Arts Festival

The organization's flagship event is the Waco Cultural Arts Festival, a three-day event held annually in November. The festival takes place at Indian Spring Park and features a wide range of activities, including music, dance, poetry, film, performance arts, visual arts, and scientific pursuits. Over the years, attendance has grown significantly from 3,000 to 18,000 visitors[1][4].

Educational Outreach

Waco Cultural Arts Fest invests heavily in educational outreach, particularly through the Waco Independent School District. Since its inception, the organization has placed significant emphasis on integrating art programs into K-12 school curricula, allocating over $50,000 for these initiatives[1].

Art at the Arc

In collaboration with the Arc of McLennan County, the organization offers a summer art camp called Art at the Arc for students with autism and cerebral palsy. This program is part of its broader commitment to arts education and accessibility[1][4].

The Opportunity Center

Waco Cultural Arts Fest also partners with the Opportunity Center, a day program for adults on the autism spectrum. This partnership aims to foster social, artistic, vocational, volunteer, and entrepreneurial development through the arts[1].

Public Art Projects

The organization supports various public art projects, including the Doris Miller Memorial, Branding the Brazos, and the Waco National Outdoor Sculpture Invitational. These initiatives help promote art in public spaces and highlight Waco's cultural heritage[1].

Art on Elm

Art on Elm is a one-day pop-up art event held on Waco's historic Elm Avenue, featuring a juried exhibition, artist booths, food, music, and local nonprofits. This event aims to engage the community and promote local art[1].

Governance and Structure

Waco Cultural Arts Fest operates with a volunteer governing Board of Directors and an advisory board. Despite having no full-time paid staff, the organization coordinates over 450 volunteers to manage its festivals and outreach activities[1][5]. Primary funding comes from community businesses, grants, and fundraising events[1].

Leadership

As of recent records, the Board of Directors includes members such as Doreen Ravenscroft and others from diverse backgrounds, ensuring inclusive leadership practices[5].