History

ARTS was founded in 2003 by a group of concerned residents of Fayetteville, Texas, who recognized that art education was lacking in our rural schools. They understood that any opportunity for our children to learn about and be exposed to the visual and performing arts would only happen if the arts were brought to the local communities. They recognized the importance of these cultural experiences to develop skills that contribute to successful adults.

 We started with a small footprint in 2003, offering two Fine Arts Assemblies in two school districts and two Art After School classes in Fayetteville. Summer Art Camp followed, with one week-long art camp in Fayetteville. 

Almost 20 years later, Arts for Rural Texas (ARTS) boasts programs and services in eight school districts, three private schools, and two community centers in Fayette, Lee, and Colorado counties.  ARTS has expanded its facilities to having two campus-based facilities, one in Fayetteville and one in Schulenburg, each with a gallery and classrooms. We have shared our passion for the love of arts with more than 25,000 children as we inspire, build confidence and cultivate creativity.