Acadiana Center for the Arts

The Acadiana Center for the Arts (AcA) is a non-profit organization that plays a pivotal role in fostering art and culture in the Acadiana region of South Louisiana. Established in 1975, the AcA has become a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to shaping the future of public education and community development through the arts. With a mission to provide equitable access to the arts and ensure fair compensation for artists, the AcA supports a wide array of cultural activities, including the creation of new works, exhibitions, festivals, performances, workshops, public art, and audience services. The organization serves an eight-parish region that encompasses Acadia, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, and Vermilion Parishes. Annually, the AcA reaches over 300,000 people and provides fair compensation to approximately 2,700 artists. Its Arts in Education programs are particularly impactful, enriching students' experiences and providing educators with tools to integrate the arts into their curricula. The AcA also administers state, local, and privately funded arts and culture re-grant programs, and it has been in partnership with the Lafayette Parish School System for many years. In terms of visual arts, the AcA boasts more than 6,000 square feet of world-class galleries, showcasing both emerging regional artists and leading professionals from the global arts community. Its Performing Arts Program is equally robust, offering a diverse range of performances that engage audiences and support the local arts community. The AcA's history took a significant turn in 2013 when it merged with the Performing Arts Society of Acadiana (PASA), an organization founded in 1989 with a mission to educate, inspire, entertain, and culturally enrich the people of South Louisiana. This merger synergized the efforts of both organizations, providing a stronger platform for the performing arts and enhancing cultural outreach. The organization is overseen by a dedicated staff, including Executive Director Samuel Oliver, and is supported by a Board of Directors comprising community leaders and professionals from various sectors. The AcA's strategic plan and annual report are available for those interested in learning more about its goals and achievements. For those wishing to engage with the AcA, there are numerous opportunities for artists, educators, organizations, and schools to get involved. The AcA offers awards, exhibition proposals, professional development, and grants, among other resources. Additionally, the organization welcomes new members and encourages visits to their facilities. The Acadiana Center for the Arts continues to be a vibrant contributor to the cultural landscape of South Louisiana, upholding its mission to let culture lead and to enrich the lives of residents and visitors through the power of the arts.