Why It Matters
The local arts sector, and the creative people it employs, enhances the quality of life, stimulates innovation to attract and retain talent, provides a magnet for cultural tourism, and contributes to overall economic vitality. Historically, $377 million of spending and event-related spending is generated by nonprofit arts and culture audiences in the Triangle every year – making up a large and vital portion of our regional economy. Research has shown that engagement in the arts has positive effects on health, positive impacts on children's social and emotional development, and has a role in influencing social change.
Despite the wide-ranging benefits, however, cultural arts organizations face ongoing challenges to their sustainability. Even before the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofit arts organizations struggled with competition for resources and audiences, inadequate performing and rehearsal space, and lack of funding. In research conducted by North Carolina State University’s Institute for Nonprofits, groups working in the arts self-reported lower organizational capacities than others in the nonprofit sector, making it harder for them to grow, evolve, and reach expanded audiences.
Additionally, it is imperative to invest in arts organizations that are making art reflecting the ever-growing diversity of the Triangle and are accessible to all its residents.
2024-2026 Arts Grantees
Our latest group of selected grantees were collectively awarded $400,000 in multi-year general operating support in response to a continued need for reliable flexible funding in the arts sector.
2024-2026 Partners & Programs
The following list of nonprofit organizations represent the partner grantees of the Foundation in conjunction with impact focus areas. View a list of Cultural Arts nonprofit partners since 2013.
Triangle Community Artists Gallery
As part of our focus on cultural arts, the Foundation’s office space also serves as a rotating art gallery, for two main reasons: to support and foster local artists, and to encourage our community to connect and engage in a meaningful conversation inspired by art.
Current Artist in Residence: Michelle Wilkie
The Durham Art Guild and Triangle Community Foundation are thrilled to present Michelle Wilkie's work in the Triangle Community Artists Gallery.
Click the button below to learn more about Michelle and to view a few of her pieces. To view the full gallery in-person, please contact Zach Ward, Senior Program Officer, at zach@trianglecf.org.
Featured Stories
Arts Access NC | Connecting Art to All in the Community
Arts Access NC works to ensure artists with disabilities are welcome in all community spaces and can express themselves creatively without barriers. We recently highlighted their story. Read it below!
TheGifted Arts | The Transformative Power of the Arts
Through programming that builds confidence and resilience, TheGifted Arts highlights the transformative power of the arts. Learn more about the organization below.