Mission and History

Our History and Affiliations

ArtServe Michigan grew from the vision of arts and cultural leaders statewide who recognized the value of a single nonprofit organization with the credibility, capacity and conviction to support, strengthen and build awareness for the arts and culture in Michigan.

ArtServe today reflects the commitments and solid foundations created by the Arts Foundation of Michigan, Business Volunteers for the Arts, Concerned Citizens for the Arts in Michigan and the Michigan Alliance for Arts Education – which merged 32 years of collective experience in 1997 to form ArtServe Michigan. In 2006, ArtServe Michigan united with the Michigan Association of Community Arts Agencies, amplifying a cohesive voice on behalf of the state's creative community.

ArtServe is the designated Michigan representative to the Americans for the Arts State Arts Advocacy Network and the Kennedy Center Alliance for Arts Education Network. Crain's Detroit Business recognized ArtServe as a Best Managed Nonprofit award finalist in 2009 and 2010.

Our Priorities

Advocacy and Public Policy: Leading research, grassroots organizing, coalition-building and government relations to advance policies and sustainable public/private funding, supporting the arts, culture, arts education and the creative industries in Michigan.

Capacity Building: Connecting artists and arts and cultural organizations with resources and experiences that make them more effective, informed and engaged.

Strategic Communications: Positioning arts, culture and arts education as vital to individual and public well-being, as well as the economic resilience of Michigan, and providing you with essential information, resources and opportunities.