Edmonds Arts Commission Celebrates 50 Years
The Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation proudly presents the 50th Anniversary Edmonds Arts Commission Exhibit, now on display through March 27th at the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation Gallery. This special exhibition honors the legacy and impact of the City of Edmonds Arts Commission (EAC), which has shaped the city’s cultural landscape since its founding in 1975.
The Edmonds Arts Commission was established to ensure that the arts remain a vital part of the community’s quality of life, economic vitality, and identity. Over the past five decades, the EAC has championed numerous initiatives, public art projects, and creative programs that have enriched Edmonds and solidified its reputation as a hub for the arts.
Exhibit Highlights
The exhibition features a selection from the City’s Public Art Collection, showcasing works that reflect the artistic history of Edmonds. Visitors can explore an overview of the EAC’s landmark programs, including:
Summer Concerts in the Park – Established in the late 1970s, this program brings live music performances to the community each summer.
Write on the Sound Writers' Conference (1985) – One of the premier literary events in the Pacific Northwest, celebrating the craft of writing.
Creative District Designation (2018) – Edmonds became the first city in Washington State to receive the official Creative District designation, reinforcing its commitment to fostering artistic innovation.
Gateway Canopy Public Art Project (2025) – Set to be completed in June 2025, this newest public art initiative is being developed in partnership with the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Innovation
Since its inception, the Edmonds Arts Commission has played a pivotal role in shaping arts policies and supporting public art throughout the city. The commission consists of seven appointed members, four of whom must have professional arts backgrounds. EAC members serve staggered four-year terms and provide recommendations to the Mayor, City Council, and other city boards on arts-related matters.
Looking ahead to 2025 and 2026, the Commission will continue to engage the community through periodic Special Meetings, as outlined in city ordinances. These meetings, open to the public, will be announced on the City of Edmonds website.
Visit the Exhibit
Art enthusiasts and community members are encouraged to visit this special 50th Anniversary exhibit to gain insight into the profound influence the Edmonds Arts Commission has had on the city’s cultural fabric. The exhibit is open through March 27th at the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation Gallery.
