City of Dubuque Arts and Culture

The Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs uses creative placemaking and intentional support of nonprofit arts organizations and local creatives to enhance the quality of life, steward the area’s cultural identity, and cultivate workforce development. Specifically, we manage a rotating public art program, administer two City grant programs, and oversee the implementation of the City's 2016 Arts & Culture Master Plan.

Since 2005, the City and its many partners have invested time and significant resources in helping shape a socially and culturally vibrant community by increasing access to actively participate in arts and cultural experiences. In addition to municipal and organizational leadership, Dubuque provides many opportunities for local residents to engage in shaping and growing the strong arts and cultural community that exists here today.  

The City’s Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs engages in a number of public and private partnerships that involve citizens, community organizations, and other departments throughout the City to bring a variety of arts and culture related initiatives to life.

Additionally, the City of Dubuque has awarded over $4.1 million to Dubuque-based arts and culture organizations and creative projects through recurring competitive grant programs, including the Operating Support for Arts and Culture Nonprofits and Support for Special Projects in Arts and Culture. When available, unique one-time regranting opportunities such as the GARE Regranting to Empower BIPOC Creativity and Culture and National Endowment for the Arts Local Arts Agency Subgranting are offered.

By leveraging the power of the arts, culture, and creativity, we can drive a broader agenda for change, growth, and transformation in a way that also builds character and quality of place. The Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs reaches thousands of Dubuque adults and children each year while enhancing the vibrancy and vitality of our community.