Maine Arts Commission facts for kids
The Maine Arts Commission is a special group in Maine. It helps artists and art groups share music, dance, poetry, painting, and other cool art with people across the state.
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History of Maine Arts Support
Early Ideas for State Art Help
Long ago, in 1933, Maine started thinking about supporting art. The Maine State Legislature created the Maine Art Commission. This group had three members chosen by the governor. Their job was to help the governor pick art for state buildings.
Creating a Permanent Arts Agency
This first group changed in the 1960s. People wanted a lasting state agency to support arts and culture. In 1964, Governor John H. Reed formed the Governor's Council on Arts and Culture. This council looked at how the state could help the arts. They suggested creating a new, independent state agency.
At the same time, big changes were happening in Washington, D.C. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) were created. These national groups also helped push for a state arts agency in Maine.
The Commission Begins Its Work
The Maine State Commission on the Arts and Humanities officially started in 1965. They began their work in 1966. The commission's goal was to help more people enjoy art in the state. It was one of the first state groups to support artistic freedom in this way.
Later, in 2003, Donna McNeil joined the Maine Arts Commission. She became the director in 2009 and retired in 2013.
