News and stories
From highlights of local events and artist spotlights to behind-the-scenes looks at our programs and initiatives, our blog is your go-to source for everything happening at Erie Arts and Culture. Join us as we celebrate creativity, share impactful stories, and keep you informed about the dynamic world of arts and culture in our region.
A Year In Review: 2025
In 2025, Erie Arts & Culture launched Pulse, expanded folk arts programming, and connected hundreds of students to hands-on arts experiences.
From the Director’s Seat: Love of Place, Love of People, Love of Art
February’s From the Director’s Seat celebrates love of community and creativity—from MLK Day performances to Educational Passport and Creative Crowd.
Bridge Studios: Connecting People to Purpose Through Music
Since 2020, Grantee Bridge Studios has grown into a thriving music hub in Titusville, offering lessons, concerts, and scholarships that strengthen creativity and community.
EAC Awards $111,000 in Grants to Support Artists and Organizations
Erie Arts & Culture awarded $111,000 to 2026 Lydia McCain Fellows and 20 Creative Sector Flex Fund grantees across Northwest PA.
From the Director’s Seat: Beginning 2026 With Hope and Momentum
From town halls to Gallery Night and meeting Erie’s new mayor, this Director’s update looks ahead to a hopeful, collaborative 2026.
Announcing the 2026 Lydia McCain Artist Fellows
Meet the 2026 Lydia McCain Artist Fellows—three Erie County creatives receiving unrestricted support to deepen their practice and shape our region’s future.
From the Director’s Seat: The Arts Are Glowing Bright This December!
This month’s Director’s update celebrates murals, youth dance, school residencies, and the Harry T. Burleigh concert—see how creativity is shining across our region.
A Vibrant Season of Learning: Arts Residencies Reach Students Across the Region
This fall, Arts in Education launched new residencies across three counties, bringing murals, improv, design, and more to classrooms.
From the Director’s Seat: When the Going Gets Tough, The Arts get creative
This Director’s update spotlights arts resilience—from Bruce Gallery visits to new partnerships in Erie’s Public Schools.
Announcing “From the Director’s Seat” - Insights from our Executive Director
In the first Director’s update, reflections on six months of leadership, Pulse, Hidden Creeks, PorchFest, and growing creative partnerships.
Vybe Queenz hosts competition November 2025
From foster care to founding Shantiva Moore’s Vybe Queenz, her hip hop majorette team inspires youth and hosts Erie’s first competition this November.
Erie’s Iconic Fish and Frogs: A Public Art Legacy That Leaped to Life
Before murals, Erie made a splash with fish and frogs! Discover how Chicago’s Cows on Parade inspired one of our city’s most whimsical art traditions.
Keeping Tradition in Step: How Mary Burkett Builds Community Through Contra Dance
Step into Meadville’s Contra Dance tradition with Mary Burkett, where live music and movement bring generations together in joyful community.
Artist Empowerment Day: Free Professional Development for Creatives in Erie, PA
Artist Empowerment Day is a free August 23 event at Erie Center for Arts & Technology featuring workshops, legal help, headshots, and tools for creatives.
Exploring Creativity, Culture, and Community: Erie Arts & Culture’s Spring and Summer in Arts Education
Nearly 1,000 Erie County students explored museums and met artists this spring—plus summer residencies at expERIEnce Children's Museum keep the creativity going!
Celebrating Vision: the 2024 Lydia McCain Artist Fellowship Recipients
Meet the 2024 McCain Artist Fellows and see how unrestricted support fueled travel, new work, and bold dreams—plus learn how to apply for 2026!
Celebrating Excellence: Casey Corritore Named Young Professional of the Year!
Erie Arts & Culture’s Casey Corritore was named Young Professional of the Year—see how her leadership is shaping our region’s creative future.
Accordion Players Reunite in Sharon for a Toe-Tapping Memorial Day Weekend Tradition
Accordionists nationwide gather in Sharon this Memorial Day weekend for the National Button Accordion Festival—a lively celebration of music, dance, and community.
Announcing Our Spring 2025 Grant Recipients: Investing in NWPA’s Creative Community
Spring 2025 grant winners announced! Meet artists and organizations driving creativity across NWPA and see how EAC is investing in our region’s arts.
Erie Arts and Culture announces New Executive Director
Meet Susannah Faulkner, the new Executive Director leading Erie Arts & Culture into its next chapter.