Erie Arts & Culture is proud to announce the 2026 Lydia McCain Artist Fellows—three Erie County artists whose work spans literature, performance, and music, and whose voices are shaping our region’s creative future. Through unrestricted fellowship support, these artists are given the freedom to deepen their practice, take creative risks, and focus fully on their work. Meet the 2026 Fellows here!

This month’s From the Director’s Seat is filled with celebration, community, and creative momentum—from town halls on statewide arts changes to youth dance competitions, new partnerships, and joyful moments inside our schools. We’re spotlighting powerful work happening across the region, including vibrant murals, multidisciplinary residencies, and the annual Harry T. Burleigh concert honoring one of Erie’s cultural trailblazers. Dive into the full post to see how the season’s spirit is shining through our arts community.

Erie Arts & Culture’s Arts in Education program kicked off the fall with a wave of new residencies across three counties, bringing hands-on creative learning to classrooms and community spaces. From murals and improv to sewing, shoe design, and mask-making, students are exploring the arts in exciting and meaningful ways. With even more residencies on the horizon—and the expansion of our Educational Passport Program—this school year is shaping up to be our most vibrant yet.

The second edition of From the Director’s Seat highlights the resilience of our arts community and the creative momentum happening across the region—from a visit to Bruce Gallery to exciting arts partnerships in Erie’s Public Schools. Read the full post for these updates and more from Erie Arts & Culture.

In the first edition of From the Director’s Seat, our Executive Director reflects on her first six months and the vibrant creativity happening across our region—from our Pulse event and the Hidden Creeks public art project to community moments like PorchFest and new partnerships. Read the full post to explore these highlights and what’s ahead for Erie Arts & Culture.

From her own journey through foster care to founding Erie’s first hip hop majorette team, Shantiva Moore has turned dance into a powerful tool for healing, discipline, and community. Her group, Vybe Queenz, continues to inspire local youth and will make history by hosting Erie’s first-ever Hip Hop Majorette Competition this November.

Before Erie was known for its murals, it made a splash with fish and frogs! Our latest blog dives into the story behind Erie’s beloved public art sculptures—how a spark of inspiration from Chicago’s “Cows on Parade” led to one of the city’s most iconic and whimsical art traditions.

Step, swing, and smile your way into Meadville’s vibrant community with Mary Burkett, whose Contra Dances are keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. Discover how her passion for live music, movement, and connection is bringing generations together—and proving that joy and community are always in step.

Artist Empowerment Day is a free, first-of-its-kind professional development event from Erie Arts & Culture, taking place August 23 at ECAT. Featuring 12 breakout sessions, legal assistance, free headshots, and expert-led workshops for working artists, teaching artists, and creative entrepreneurs, the day offers practical tools and community connections to help creatives thrive in Northwest Pennsylvania.

This spring, nearly 1,000 Erie County students explored museums, made music, met artists, and set sail—all thanks to a powerful collaboration between Erie Arts & Culture and six incredible cultural partners. And this summer, the creativity continues at the expERIEnce Children’s Museum with hands-on artist residencies for kids and families!

Meet the 2024 McCain Artist Fellows and discover how unrestricted support helped them travel, write, create, and dream big—plus, find out how to apply for the 2026 fellowship!

Erie Arts & Culture’s Casey Corritore has been named Young Professional of the Year—and for good reason. Discover how her leadership, creativity, and passion are shaping the future of the arts in our region.

Accordionists from across the country will gather in Sharon this Memorial Day weekend for the National Button Accordion Festival—a joyful celebration of traditional music, dance, and community spirit.

"Susannah is a wonderful fit for the Erie Arts and Culture of today and of tomorrow."

Meet Susannah Faulkner, the new Executive Director of Erie Arts and Culture.

Erie Arts & Culture’s Arts in Education program continues to bring vibrant and creative experiences to communities across our six-county region. From murals and ceramics to music and dance, teaching artists are engaging students and community members in meaningful hands-on projects. With residencies already completed and many more underway, we’re excited to see the arts inspire learning and connection. Interested in bringing an artist to your space or becoming a teaching artist yourself? Contact us to get involved!

Erie Arts & Culture is investing over $100,000 in artists and arts organizations across Northwest PA! Meet our 2025 McCain Artist Fellows, see our latest grant recipients, and explore upcoming funding opportunities. Read more!

2025 is here, and Erie Arts & Culture is ready for another year of creativity, connection, and cultural celebration! From grant opportunities and networking events to arts education and community collaborations, we’re shaping a vibrant future for the arts in Northwest PA. See what’s ahead!

Erie Arts & Culture brought folk art to life this summer with 49 workshops across six counties, thanks to a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services! From harmonica playing to Arabic calligraphy, these events connected communities with diverse cultural traditions. See the impact!

Discover the rich cultural traditions of our region at Celebrate Erie 2024, showcasing the artistry of New Americans.