About Us
The Mission of the Ottawa County Arts & Humanities Council is to support, encourage, coordinate, and promote interactive activities and programs in the arts and humanities in Ottawa County, Oklahoma.
Organization Overview
The Ottawa County Arts & Humanities Council is a dedicated cultural and educational agency based in Ottawa County, Oklahoma. Our primary mission is to support, encourage, coordinate, and promote interactive activities and programs in the arts and humanities throughout the county. We are committed to fostering a vibrant community where creativity and cultural expression thrive.
About our Community
Ottawa County, Oklahoma, nestled in the state’s northeastern corner, is a vibrant community known for its diverse population and rich cultural heritage. Home to over seven racial groups, including Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and White, as well as nine sovereign Native American tribal nations, the county is a tapestry of ethnicities. Established in 1907, Ottawa County covers 484.73 square miles and is historically significant, with the Ottawa County Historical Society preserving its past. The arts thrive here, with notable venues such as the Coleman Theatre and the Myaamia Heritage Museum & Archive fostering a lively cultural scene. Visitors can explore attractions like Mickey Mantle’s Boyhood Home and the iconic Route 66 sites. With Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College serving as an educational cornerstone, Ottawa County offers a unique and welcoming environment. For more information, please visit our page on Ottawa County.
Core Values
The Council operates under a strong set of values that guide our work and initiatives:
- Community Engagement: We believe in the power of the arts to bring people together and foster a sense of community. Our programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all residents of Ottawa County.
- Educational Enrichment: Education is at the heart of our mission. We aim to provide opportunities for learning and growth in the arts and humanities, supporting lifelong learning and development.
- Non-Profit Integrity: As a non-profit organization, we are not formed for financial gain. Our commitment is to the community, ensuring that our resources are used to benefit the public. No part of our assets, income, or profit is distributed to directors or officers.
- Cultural Promotion: We strive to promote the rich cultural heritage of Ottawa County, celebrating both traditional and contemporary forms of artistic expression.
- Arts for All: We are dedicated to ensuring that all our programs and services are accessible to everyone, regardless of race, gender, ability, or socioeconomic status. We believe that diversity enriches our community and that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the arts.
Grant and Scholarship Programs
Each year, the Council awards up to five small grants, up to $500 each, to programs that enhance arts and humanities education in Ottawa County. These grants are vital in supporting local initiatives and encouraging new projects that enrich our community’s cultural landscape.
In addition, we offer scholarships to residents or students attending school in Ottawa County. These scholarships are awarded during our annual festival, held on the last Saturday in April. College students can apply for one of three scholarships based on their primary arts focus. We also provide a scholarship for a high school senior planning to attend college who must be actively involved in an arts program at their current school.
Supported Events and Programs
The Ottawa County Arts & Humanities Council is proud to help fund various events and programs that enrich our community, including:
- Ottawa County Arts Festival (formerly MuralFest): A celebration of local artists and their work, this festival highlights the diverse talents within our community.
- Art for Fun Summer Arts Education Camps: These camps provide a creative outlet for children and young adults, fostering artistic skills and appreciation.
- Miami Little Theatre & Youth on Stage Camp: Supporting local theater arts, these programs offer performance opportunities and skill development for young thespians.
- Arts Education Classes for All Ages: We offer classes that cater to all age groups, encouraging everyone to explore and develop their artistic talents.
- Musicians at the Ottawa County Farmers Market: Bringing live music to the community, this initiative supports local musicians and enhances the market experience.
Through these initiatives and more, the Ottawa County Arts & Humanities Council is dedicated to nurturing the arts and humanities in our community, ensuring that creativity and culture continue to flourish for generations to come.