Beaufort County Arts Council

The Beaufort County Arts Council, also known as Arts of the Pamlico, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting arts in Beaufort County and the surrounding region. Founded in 1972, the organization has been serving the community for over 50 years.

Mission

The primary mission of the Beaufort County Arts Council is to empower the community by fostering creativity, encouraging collaboration, and providing various cultural programs. These include performances, exhibitions, educational opportunities, and workshops for people of all ages. The organization aims to enrich the community through the arts and support local artists and arts organizations.

Turnage Theatre

A significant component of the Arts Council's activities involves the historic Turnage Theatre, which was built in 1913. The theatre was rescued by the Turnage Theatre Foundation in 1996, and it was purchased by the Beaufort County Arts Council in 2013. Today, the theatre serves as a vibrant venue for music, theatre, dance, fine arts, photography, poetry readings, and youth classes. The facility can be rented for various events, including performances, exhibitions, rehearsals, receptions, and meetings.

Collaborations and Initiatives

The Beaufort County Arts Council has engaged in collaborative efforts with other local institutions, such as the Brown Library History Center. This partnership aims to promote the arts, history, and culture of Washington by hosting lectures, historical displays, and events. The council also participates in educational projects and the preservation of cultural heritage through initiatives like the "Tales of the Turnage" project, which focuses on preserving the history of Vaudeville and the Turnage Theatre.

Impact and Funding

The organization has received funding from various sources, including grants like the North Carolina Humanities American Rescue Plan Humanities Grants in 2021. These grants have supported projects such as creating video resources documenting the region's cultural heritage and the history of the Turnage Theatre. Through such initiatives, the Beaufort County Arts Council enhances its role as a state-designated arts council, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of eastern North Carolina.

Community Engagement

By fostering community engagement and collaboration, the Beaufort County Arts Council plays a pivotal role in promoting local art, preserving historical sites, and enriching the cultural life of Beaufort County. Its efforts reflect a broader movement towards collaboration among nonprofits to achieve common goals and ensure the sustainability of cultural initiatives.