About Arts DeKalb

A County-Led Initiative Advancing Arts, Culture, and Creative Opportunity Across DeKalb
CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson

A Message from DeKalb County Leadership

Arts and culture are essential to the identity, growth, and vitality of DeKalb County. With the launch of Arts DeKalb, we are taking a bold step forward in our commitment to support artists, expand cultural programming, and create opportunities for creative expression across every community.

This initiative represents more than an investment in the arts — it is an investment in people, in place, and in the future of DeKalb County. Through Arts DeKalb, we are building stronger connections, celebrating our diversity, and ensuring that creativity continues to thrive throughout our county.

We are proud to champion this initiative and look forward to the impact it will have on our residents, our artists, and our communities for years to come.

— Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
Chief Executive Officer, DeKalb County

A New Chapter for Arts in DeKalb County

DeKalb County officially launched Arts DeKalb, marking a transformative step in its commitment to supporting artists, expanding cultural programming, and strengthening the role of the arts across the community.

This initiative represents a unified vision to elevate creativity, connect communities, and invest in the cultural fabric that defines DeKalb County.

The Launch of Arts DeKalb

The official launch of Arts DeKalb brought together artists, cultural leaders, elected officials, and community partners to celebrate the creativity that defines DeKalb County.

“Tonight marks an exciting moment for DeKalb County as we officially launch Arts DeKalb, a new initiative dedicated to celebrating creativity, supporting artists, and expanding cultural opportunities throughout our community,” said DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.

As part of this initiative, an executive order was issued establishing Arts DeKalb, reinforcing the county’s commitment to investing in arts and culture as a driver of community connection, economic vitality, and creative expression.

Leadership & Vision

Director of Arts & Cultural Affairs

Stephanie Raines was introduced as DeKalb County’s Director of Arts and Cultural Affairs, leading the Arts DeKalb initiative and expanding cultural programming across the county.

“Our vision is to support artists, expand cultural programming, and ensure that creativity
continues to thrive in communities across our county.”

DeKalb Arts Council

Guiding the Vision for Arts and Culture Across DeKalb County

The DeKalb Arts Council brings together leaders from across the county to guide arts and cultural initiatives, ensuring representation, collaboration, and community impact.

Charlene Fang

District 1

Kyle Williams

District 2

Kamille Gilmore

District 3

Melanie Hammet

District 4

Rahn Mayo

District 5

Lauren Keifer

Super District 6

Delores Burgess

Super District 7

Jan Selman

Office of the CEO

Gale Walldorff

Office of the CEO

Public Art Across DeKalb

The launch of Arts DeKalb introduced the county’s first public art initiative, featuring fiberglass cow sculptures that symbolize both DeKalb’s agricultural heritage and its creative future.

Each city within DeKalb County will receive a fiberglass cow, which will be transformed by local artists into a unique public art installation and placed throughout parks, downtown areas, and public spaces.

This initiative brings art directly into the community, making creativity visible, accessible, and interactive.

Our Mission

Arts DeKalb exists to champion the arts as a vital part of community life.

By promoting public art, supporting artists, and expanding cultural programming, the initiative strengthens community identity while driving economic growth and creative opportunity.
Arts DeKalb is committed to:
  • Supporting local artists and creatives
  • Expanding access to arts and cultural experiences
  • Strengthening partnerships with organizations and communities
  • Enhancing public spaces through art

What Arts DeKalb Offers

Arts DeKalb serves as a creative guide to the county’s artistic landscape through four core areas:

Discover Arts Destinations

Explore creative locations across DeKalb County, including galleries, public art, cultural corridors, and performance venues.

Connect with Stories

Read features that highlight artists, organizations, and the people shaping DeKalb’s cultural identity.

Support Community Creativity

Learn about initiatives and partnerships that strengthen the local arts ecosystem.

Plan Your Experience

Find inspiration for where to go, what to see, and how to experience the arts throughout DeKalb.

Creativity Lives Here

Arts DeKalb reflects the bold creativity, local talent, and cultural expression found throughout the county. Each neighborhood carries its own artistic identity, contributing to a dynamic and evolving cultural landscape.

Building a Creative Future

Through Arts DeKalb, county leaders aim to elevate local talent, foster collaboration, and position DeKalb County as a destination for arts and culture.

This initiative is not just about art — it is about community, connection, and creating a lasting cultural legacy.

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