With support from the California Arts Council, the San Mateo County Office of Arts and Culture (OAC) will strengthen current, programming, including the annual arts/culture grants cycle, Arts in County Jails, public art projects, showcase of artists in the County Galleries, production of equity workshops, Poetry Out Loud and arts education programs, and our annual Countywide Celebration of the Arts in September 2024. New programming implemented in 2023 will include a Youth Cultural Ambassador Program, County Poet Laureate, and work with the Youth Probation Department.
he San Mateo County Office of Arts and Culture (OAC) is a leader in regional arts advocacy efforts, working to further access to arts and cultural resources throughout the County. The OAC administers the Youth Arts Fellowship Program, public art program, the Poet Laureate, Arts and Culture grants, Poetry Out Loud, County art exhibitions, public performances, and collaborations with arts organizations, public schools, culture bearers, County departments and other local resources. We are a strong partner of the Arts Commission, who works to advise the Board of Supervisors on arts and cultural matters. The OAC acts as a bridge between arts and culture nonprofits, local communities, artists, and County agencies to integrate the arts into our everyday lives.