Our History

West Valley Arts Council is a 501c3 nonprofit that serves the 13 municipalities that make up the West Valley by acting as a facilitator for inclusive art and culture in the West Valley.

Our partnerships connect and strengthen communities through sharing resources, opportunities, and building networks across neighborhoods, artists, culture-keepers, and organizations. Our goal is to help nurture an arts ecosystem where everyone has a voice and everyone belongs.

Founded in 1969 as the Cultural Arts Society West, and renamed West Valley Arts Council in 1989 to reflect a broader and more inclusive vision, WVAC has long been part of the cultural fabric of the West Valley. Rather than acting as the center, we strive to be one thread among many — helping cultivate the quality of life that emerges when communities shape their own cultural landscapes.

A Legacy of Excellence

Celebrating decades of recognition for our impact on arts, culture, and community across the West Valley. 

2019
Best of the West: Quality of Life Community Award
2015
Governor’s Art Award

Gallery 37

2013
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce

Non Profit of the Year

2008
Best of the West: Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Big Read – To Kill a Mockingbird

2007
Best of the West: Arts, Culture & Entertainment

West Valley Culture and Heritage Blueprint

2005
Best of the West: Arts, Entertainment & Sports

West Valley Fine Arts – Full Season

2001
Best of the West: Service to Communities

Gallery 37

1993
Governor’s Art Award

West Valley Fine Arts

1992
Inaugural Best of the West

West Valley Fine Arts – The Arts

Guiding Principles

Rather than acting as the center, we strive to be one thread among many — helping cultivate the quality of life that emerges when communities shape their own cultural landscapes.

Our goal is to help nurture an arts ecosystem where everyone has a voice and everyone belongs. Through community-driven programs, open opportunities, artist-led events, shared exhibitions, and accessible resources, we help support the many pathways people in the West Valley use to create, express, and connect with each other.

"Everyone has a story and a song. They are maps of our ancestors, our acts, and our dreams.”

Joy Harjo (Muscogee Nation, U.S. Poet Laureate)