Tennessee

Tennessee’s artistic heritage and cultural assets are among the richest in the nation. Tennessee’s artists – representing performing arts, music, visual arts, literary arts and folk arts – help define who we are as a state.

The non-profit creative sector is an important part of our state’s economy, generating 1.7 billion in economic impact annually. Tennessee is a hub of creative innovation, technology and performing arts, a state where classic meets cutting edge.

TENNESSEE AIR

The Tennessee Arts Commission is the statewide partner connecting artists and creatives with AIR programs. With a focus on rural and Appalachian communities, TAC is eager to partner with the AIR Institute to better serve these communities. AIR’s programs align with the Commission’s strategic plan by incentivizing collaboration, supporting community vibrancy through the arts, and by investing in initiatives that improve quality of life for Tennesseans.

Tennessee’s journey with Air began in February of 2020 in Gatlinburg, with a joint facilitator training with the North Carolina Arts Council. This training session revealed the excitement in both states to use the arts as a vehicle to address community needs and drive economic development.

Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Tennessee Arts Commission has assisted the Air Institute with testing virtual Air Shift Workshops and facilitator training. The testing has been successful. Both AIR and the Commission are ready to help rural Appalachian communities empower their citizens through productive partnerships between business, government and the arts.

If you would like more information on becoming an AIR facilitator, or bringing an AIR workshop to your community, please reach out at the contacts listed below.