Mission

The mission of TUAC is, "to enrich the lives of all citizens by providing the highest quality arts programming possible." Towards that end, the
Thomaston-Upson Arts Council:

• Emphasizes the performing arts series and the arts-for-children program;
• Provides opportunities and services to local artists and arts organizations; and
• Pursues inclusion of the arts as integral in basic education.

Location and Origin

The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council (TUAC), which began in 1985 with only thirteen members, is a 501-(c) 3 non-profit, community-based organization with over 800 members and only one full-time staff member. Located in rural West Central Georgia, Upson County is a community of approximately 26,300 people. TUAC plays an important role in increasing the quality of life in Upson County.

From a closet-size office in an old hotel, TUAC has grown to occupy a large building on the Thomaston square. TUAC's area accommodates a small gallery space, a workroom, and some office space. Performances are held at local schools, community auditorium, churches, recreation areas, libraries, and a local theater.

Community Involvement

TUAC is well known as a presenter of the arts, a supporter of local artists, a contributor to adult and student art education, a source of information and referral for arts contacts, and an effective influence upon decisions pertaining to the quality of life in the community. TUAC annual programs are planned to attract as many participants as possible from all segments of the community. These programs include in-school resident artists, art exhibits, performing art, storytelling, children's arts camp, dinner theater, symphony performances, ballet, school-based programming, and many others.

TUAC affirms the power of the arts to communicate at the deepest level in order to draw together people of all races, ages, and educational levels. The arts have value both on a personal level and as an economic force in the community.

Contributor to Arts Education

The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council considers its most important obligation is to the children and young people of this community. An enormous amount of time and effort is spent each year on school and summer programs dedicated to the goal of introducing our younger citizens to the arts. Our definition of the arts refers to the fine arts: painting, music, dance, drama, sculpture, photography,
etc.

TUAC has had a successful partnership with the Thomaston-Upson School System to supplement the arts curricula in the elementary, middle, and high schools in the county. This partnership has allowed children in our community to be exposed to all forms of the arts within a school setting.