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.
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.
Bring Creativity to Life: Arts in Education at Erie Arts & Culture
Arts in Education brings murals, ceramics, music, and dance to our six-county region—connect with us to host or become a teaching artist!
Strengthening NWPA’s Creative Community: Erie Arts and Culture Announces Grant Recipients & Opportunities for 2025
Erie Arts & Culture is investing $100,000+ in regional artists and organizations—meet our 2025 McCain Fellows and explore new funding opportunities!
New Year, New Possibilities: Welcoming 2025 with Creativity and Connection
2025 is here! Discover grants, events, arts education, and collaborations shaping a vibrant creative future in NWPA.
Bringing Culture to Communities: Folk Art Workshops at Local Libraries Inspire and Connect
Erie Arts & Culture hosted 49 folk art workshops across six counties, thanks to Institute of Museum and Library Services support—see the impact!
Traditional Arts Shine at Celebrate Erie 2024
Discover the rich cultural traditions of our region at Celebrate Erie 2024, showcasing the artistry of New Americans.
Smilo & the Ghost: Erie’s Americana Sensation on the Rise
Discover how Erie Arts & Culture’s support helped Smilo & the Ghost earn an award that will fully fund their next EP.
New Americans Bring Folk Songs and Joy into Classrooms
Discover how Erie Arts & Culture’s “Use the Groove” project turns classroom routines into joyful song with talented New American artists.
Celebrating the 2024 McCain Artist Fellows
Erie Arts & Culture introduces the 2024 Lydia McCain Artist Fellowship awardees, celebrating transformative work by local artists at every stage.