Our Mission

To collaborate with our community and artists to celebrate and experience the arts.

ESAC achieves its mission by:

• Offering programs with professional artists that mirror the diversity of the community

• Providing accessible, free or low-cost art programs for children and families

• Approaching tough neighborhood issues and celebrating community strengths through the arts

• Serving as an arts resource for individuals and organizations in our community

Join us in our commitment to bring accessible arts experiences to our community

Arts for All

Bringing the Arts to Saint Paul

For ages 1-100+

When you give people the opportunity to express themselves, it creates a sense of connection and belonging. We believe that when communities know and understand each other, we all benefit. Half of Saint Paul’s population lives on the East Side, which boasts a variety of cultures. Coming from different backgrounds can sometimes present challenges, but we believe diversity is our community’s greatest strength.

East Side Arts Council uses art to bridge cultural gaps and strengthen communities through a wide range of visual and performing arts opportunities that reflect our multicultural populations. Our programs and partnerships allow the diverse population of the East Side to share and celebrate culture, offering a sense of belonging and purpose. We exist to alleviate shortcomings on the East Side, from a lack of funding for art programs in schools to the isolation some seniors experience in retirement communities.

East Side Arts Council gratefully acknowledges that we are on sacred lands of the Dakota people. The East Side of St. Paul is located within the land of the Wahpekute Indians, one of the 7 primary divisions of the Dakota. It is our honor to work and create art and community with Dakota, Ojibwe, and other Indigenous people in the Twin Cities.

Thank you to our funders