Over the last few weeks Arizona constituents and national friends of the arts have wondered about the Arts Commission’s position related to several recently-enacted Arizona laws.  

The Arizona Commission on the Arts is a 43-year old agency of the State of Arizona.  And the truth is, though it is personally difficult at times, it is not legal or permissible for state agencies – as agencies – to engage in or take official positions related to state or federal laws, political issues or elections.  Of course, individuals and organizations are not bound by the same set of rules. 

In considering this post I immediately thought of the work of Pablo Picasso, Kathe Kollwitz, Diego Rivera and Shirin Neshat, as well as Neil Young, Tony Kushner and Maya Angelou. Indeed artists have always led wide-ranging discussions, provided context and information, and examined the current events of their times in thoughtful and inventive ways.  

"Guernica," Pablo Picasso, 1937

At the Arts Commission, we take our charter very seriously: to provide grants, programs, services and leadership in support of arts and arts education programs; and in partnership with arts organizations, schools, festivals and individual artists, to celebrate Arizona’s diverse communities and rich cultural traditions, inspire creativity, grow local economies and enhance quality of life for all Arizonans. 

For these and other reasons our agency has long been involved with another state commission, the Arizona Mexico Commission.  The Arizona Mexico Commission is made up of individuals committed to cross-border collaborations meant to develop joint efforts in tourism, education, transportation, water and agribusiness, as well as arts and culture.  Set in motion in 1959 by Arizona Governor Paul J. Fannin, who boldly stated, “God made us neighbors, let us be good neighbors,” these gatherings include leaders from Arizona as well as Sonora, Mexico. 

Though I have learned so much from the Arizona Mexico Commission in my 4.5 years as Executive Director of the Arts Commission, I have come to understand only a fraction of the complex relationships between our state and its border neighbors.  However I can speak with authority about the values that make up the Arts Commission’s vision for the arts industry: 

  • Access to the arts for all,
  • Increased opportunities for employment in the arts sector,
  • Quality, robust arts education for students,
  • The recognition and inclusion of arts programs as societal cornerstones,
  • The development of lasting arts-based partnerships with the for-profit business sector, and
  • An enduring respect for the inimitable voices of Arizona artists.

These values relate to our state’s economic recovery and quality of life, and drive our programmatic efforts.  And all have inclusiveness at their core. 

We continue to work in this direction.  In the meantime, know that the Arts Commission will provide information and resources related to state laws, policy, and effects on the arts industry as more information becomes available.  

Sincerely, 

Bob Booker
Executive Director