Humanities Hub: Shaping the Next 50 Years for YAC
As the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council (YAC) celebrates its 50th anniversary, it looks back on nearly five decades of enriching the cultural fabric of Oxford and the surrounding region. Founded in 1975, YAC has been a driving force in providing diverse artistic and cultural opportunities, supporting local artists, and fostering community engagement. Each year, the Arts Council offers an impressive array of programs—more than 300 days of events—including art exhibits, theater productions, concerts, independent films, and educational workshops.
YAC’s impact extends beyond individual events; it serves as a vital hub for the region’s cultural life. The organization supports over 20 arts and cultural groups, helping to facilitate collaborations that reach a broad audience. In 2023 alone, these efforts attracted 221,000 attendees and generated nearly $11 million in economic impact, while also sustaining 148 jobs annually.
A cornerstone of YAC’s work is the Powerhouse Community Arts Center, a multi-use space that hosts a variety of cultural activities, including performances from Theatre Oxford, Hinge Dance Company, and the Thacker Mountain Radio Hour. The Powerhouse also provides a venue for YAC’s educational initiatives, helping local artists and creatives build their businesses and develop their craft.
Looking toward the future, YAC is proposing the creation of a new physical humanities hub. This space will provide both studio and living accommodations for artists, along with interactive facilities for classes, workshops, and conferences. Wayne Andrews, executive director of YAC, envisions the hub as a place where artists can connect with one another, engage with the community, and contribute to a shared cultural future. “This hub will allow us to continue telling the stories that have shaped our region while ensuring that creatives have a permanent place in our community,” Andrews said.
A critical component of YAC’s continued success is its membership drive, which supports programs like free summer art camps for children, concerts in the Grove, and rotating art exhibits. Donations also help fund productions by local theater companies such as Theatre Oxford and Leda Swan, ensuring that arts programming remains accessible to everyone.
As YAC celebrates its 50th anniversary, it remains committed to growing its programs and enriching the cultural life of the region for generations to come. To donate or learn more about upcoming events and initiatives, visit http://www.oxfordarts.com or call 662-236-6429.
