East Side Arts Council

Description

East Side Arts Council grew out of the community in East St. Paul. In 1989, a grassroots citizen's group, concerned with social and economic conditions, suggested an arts council as a way to revitalize and strengthen the East Side community. Phalen Area Community Council sponsored an arts committee which eventually blossomed into the East Side Arts Council. ESAC was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1991.

East Side Arts Council is dedicated to encouraging the creativity and strength of our community. It works with neighbors, artists and local groups to sustain, improve and celebrate the areas where we live and work. It's mission is to enrich the lives of East Side residents by providing diverse arts and cultural experiences for families and individuals.

Some of ESAC's arts programs focus on socio-economic concerns, others embrace cultural or educational concerns. Young people are a high priority for ESAC. They participate in ESAC's after school enrichment, ArtsYES, Urban Jam Dance, and Artmobile.

Other ESAC activities draw together people from across cultural and economic boundaries to share in the pleasure and fellowhip of the arts. Thursday Night LIVE! at Lake Phalen offers free outdoor summer concerts. The annual Harvest Festival showcases performing artists and draws thousands of people to the Payne Avenue Parade.