Artown Mission
"Artown's mission is to strengthen Reno's arts industry, enhance our civic identity and national image, thereby creating a climate for the cultural and economic rebirth of our region. Artown's primary goal is to encourage local artist participation and highlight the best performers in northern Nevada. Additionally, we exist to market and promote these arts events locally, regionally, and nationally as a premier arts festival."Artown is a colorful visual delight everywhere you look. To get a glimpse of what's in store, view my Artown pictures gallery.
Artown: A Brief History
Artown started in 1996 as a way to counteract suburban flight and revitalize downtown Reno by getting more people to visit the city center. An arts themed festival was created through the efforts of civic leaders, business people, and the arts community. With a combination of free and ticketed events, the first Artown attracted an estimated 30,000 participants. Growing rapidly from its initial success, Artown today is a major annual production lasting throughout the month of July. In addition to local and regional talent, internationally known artists regularly perform at Artown. Past performers have included Marcel Marceau, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Diavolo Dance Theater, Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Pilobolus, Vusi Mahlasela, Mikhail Baryshnikov, American Ballet Theater, and Pink Martini.Artown today consists of nearly 400 art and cultural events attended by an estimated 300,000 people. Most events are free to the public, including some performances by world famous artists. Ticketed feature events are held at various venues around town such as the Pioneer Theater and hotel/casino theaters. The City of Reno is Artown's major sponsor, aided by other government entities and businesses in the Reno / Tahoe region. The Nevada Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts provide support as well. Artown 2011 is the 16th anniversary of this extraordinary event.
Sources: Artown and press releases from RKPR, Inc.
