culturalindy : about the indianapolis cultural development commission

What comes first, economic or cultural development?

The First Five Years

Download the 2002-2006 Indianapolis Cultural Development Commission Accomplishments here.

Awards

See who has recognized the work of the Commission.

Partner Organizations

Learn which organizations are working with the Commission.

In Indianapolis, we recognize that healthy and growing economies happen in cities with deep and diverse cultural scenes. Indianapolis has a wealth of cultural amenities, facilities, events and activities - but too few people are aware of them. The Indianapolis Cultural Development Commission was created in 2002 to support and encourage an environment where arts and culture flourish and to let the world know about the city's vibrant cultural scene.

It is designed to help improve the quality of life for Indianapolis residents and enhance visitors' experience by capitalizing on the city's cultural amenities and attributes.

Commission's Goals

Stimulate increased local cultural participation by residents.
Maximize the cultural experience for existing and event visitors.
Strengthen Indianapolis and Central Indiana as a unique cultural destination to attract new tourists.
Build a sustainable infrastructure to support cultural development.

Indianapolis Cultural Development Commission

The Indianapolis Cultural Development Commission is comprised of nine members and three advisors who work together to help guide the city's overall cultural direction.

The Commission partners with the Arts Council of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association and Indianapolis Downtown, Inc. on various programs including public art, cultural districts, marketing and grants.

The Commission is supported by the Lilly Endowment Inc. with administrative support from the Capital Improvement Board.

Commissioners

Justice Theodore Boehm, Chairman
Gerald Bepko, Indiana University
Alpha Blackburn, Blackburn & Associates
William Crawford, State Representative and Indiana Black Expo
Colleen Heeter, Indiana Black Expo (Proxy for William Crawford)
Walter Knabe, Artist
June McCormack
Brian Payne, Central Indiana Community Foundation
Yvonne Shaheen, Diversities Inc.
Al Smith, Chase

Staff
Jenny Guimont, Director/Administrator