About Us
What is the Norman
Arts Council?
The Norman Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the arts in Norman, Oklahoma. Since 1976, it has fostered creativity through public art, exhibitions, festivals, education, and community events like the 2nd Friday Art Walk and Norman Music Festival. The Council also operates MAINSITE Contemporary Art, offers grants and scholarships, and helps make the arts a vital part of Norman’s cultural and economic life.
Organizations That Norman Arts Supports
Norman Arts Council does many things, but our proudest offering is a grants program, which has fostered new organizations and supported the community art traditions that make Norman a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
Our grantees present programming, festivals, exhibitions, and educational opportunities that serve a diverse range of audiences — from young to old — through a wide array of artistic media, including visual arts, film, dance, music, theater, literature, and more.
History
The Norman Arts Council was founded in 1976 to enrich the Norman community by stimulating artistic, cultural, and economic growth through the support and promotion of the arts. At its inception, the NAC became the face and voice of arts advocacy in Norman. Since then, the NAC has continued to uphold its mission through various programs and initiatives. Early on, the Arts and Humanities Roundtable was established. This network of 501(c)(3) arts and cultural organizations in Norman facilitates dialogue and collaboration among all involved, promoting the continued growth of our community as an arts destination.
The Norman Arts Council operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by Executive Director Leslie Nottingham. Its structure includes a dedicated staff, board of directors, officers, and committees that help guide programs and special events. Volunteers also play a key role in supporting the Council’s mission to advance the arts in Norman.
Our Organziation
Economic & Social Impact
The arts industry has a significant impact on the economy, creating and supporting 600 jobs, generating over $36 million in economic impact, attracting audiences totaling 750,000 to festivals, concerts, and other programs, and drawing over 200,000 visitors, resulting in $25 million in audience spending.
But it’s more than just numbers. The arts in our community cultivate civic pride, bring our neighbors together, and are of vital importance to the quality of life of residents and surrounding communities.
Statement on Artistic Freedom
Norman Arts Council proudly supports building platforms to celebrate all creators and their contributions to society. We will continue to advocate for local artists, organizations and individuals that wish to do the same.
Contact
Norman Arts Council
122 E Main St,
Norman, OK 73069
NAC@NormanArts.org
(405) 360-1162
Open 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday - Saturday
Closed Sunday and Monday
2nd Friday Art Walk
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Job Postings
Stay tuned for possible job postings that give you the opportunity to work with the best arts organization.