Indy Arts Council Unveils Strategic Plan for a Thriving Arts Future

On June 25, 2025, the Indy Arts Council unveiled its comprehensive five-year strategic plan for 2025–2030 during a public meeting at the Indianapolis Artsgarden. This plan, developed in collaboration with Next Practice Partners, is the culmination of a two-year process that engaged nearly 3,000 regional stakeholders—including artists, arts organizations, funders, civic partners, and community residents—through surveys, focus groups, and interviews.

The strategic plan identifies five key focus areas:

1. Sustainable Funding: Ensuring long-term financial support for the arts sector.

2. Everyday Arts Access: Making arts and culture experiences more accessible to all residents.

3. Increased Awareness: Enhancing public knowledge and appreciation of local arts initiatives.

4. Professional Development and Shared Services: Providing resources and training to support artists and arts organizations.

5. Arts and Culture Destination: Positioning Central Indiana as a vibrant hub for arts and culture.

The plan also highlights that while 79% of residents participate in local arts, only 48% feel their needs are fully met, citing lack of awareness (46%) and affordability (34%) as significant barriers.

Established in 1987, the Indy Arts Council has been a pivotal force in supporting local artists and enhancing community engagement through the arts. The council administers the city's annual grants program, which, in 2024, awarded nearly $1.5 million to 91 local arts and culture organizations. This funding has been instrumental in bolstering the city's arts scene, benefiting nearly 8 million residents and visitors each year.

In March 2025, Judith B. Thomas, then Deputy Mayor of Neighborhood Engagement for Indianapolis, was named the new president and CEO of the Indy Arts Council. With over three decades of experience contributing to significant city events, Thomas is well-equipped to lead the council into its next chapter.

The strategic plan underscores the council's commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible arts environment. By addressing barriers such as lack of awareness and affordability, the plan aims to enhance community engagement and ensure that the arts are a vital part of everyday life in Central Indiana. Moreover, the emphasis on sustainable funding and professional development is expected to strengthen the local arts economy, providing stability and growth opportunities for artists and organizations alike.

The Indy Arts Council's strategic plan aligns with broader trends in the arts sector, where organizations are increasingly focusing on inclusivity, community engagement, and sustainable funding. For instance, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's recent strategic plan also emphasizes community engagement and economic impact, highlighting a city-wide commitment to integrating the arts into the fabric of the community.

The Indy Arts Council's 2025–2030 strategic plan represents a significant step toward transforming Central Indiana into a thriving arts and culture destination. Through collaborative efforts and targeted initiatives, the council aims to overcome existing challenges and create a more accessible and vibrant arts scene for all residents.