Arts Council Of Big Sky

OUR MISSION

The mission of the Arts Council of Big Sky is to enrich our community through artistic experiences.

OUR VISION

Our vision is for Big Sky to be a community connected and inspired through art.

OUR VALUES

Community – We believe the arts are an essential component of a well-rounded, healthy and vibrant community. We also believe that all members of the community should have access to the arts and artistic experiences. We offer free programming throughout the year and our contribute what you can fee structure keeps our art classes available to everyone.

Culture – We believe in embracing and representing the full character and depth of our community, so we offer a broad array of artistic experiences. Our art classes feature different mediums; we present concerts by local and nationally known musical performers from a variety of backgrounds, traditions and genres; and we introduce a wide variety of visual arts and artists to the community through our auction, artisan festival and public art program. 

Collaboration – We believe that working in relationship with other organizations and individuals amplifies our impact in the community. We pride ourselves in the many partnerships we have developed so that we can serve the community in the best way possible.

Connection – We believe that when people experience art together they are better able to connect with each other and with themselves. Shared creative spaces can break down barriers and make it easier for people to understand one another. Our art spaces are places where people can learn and grow in a nurturing, welcoming environment.

The Arts Council of Big Sky was founded in 1988 to provide cultural experiences to residents and visitors Big Sky. We’ve grown to be one of the leading non-profit arts organizations in Southwest Montana by combining our ability to produce high-quality events with our desire to make Big Sky an art-centric community.

The ACBS is a volunteer driven organization with a board of directors that works hard to keep our organization sustainable, reliable and financially viable. Our small, creative staff works equally hard to make sure that we get the most out of our money—this past year, 84% of our budget was allocated toward programming. Our key efforts include presenting music, film and theater events; offering art workshops and educational programs for people of all ages; and establishing a lasting and impactful public art program in our community. 

The Arts Council has a new home as of April 2025, and is now located in the Big Sky Center for the Arts. We have our administrative offices, gallery and event space and dedicated arts classrooms where we will be able to expand our offerings to the local community. We are undergoing an ambitious capital campaign to redesign the building into a state-of-the-art hub for community, cultural and connection.

We are a Montana 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. The ACBS receives funding from the Big Sky Resort Tax District, local foundations, regional, national and state grants, individual donations, business sponsorships and ticket sales from various events throughout the year.