The last few years at ArtsBuild have been an incredibly rewarding journey. Looking back, I am immensely grateful for the privilege of serving an organization that is a cornerstone of Chattanooga’s arts and culture. It has reinforced my belief in the power of the arts to bring communities together and drive personal and economic growth.
While it’s now time to hand on the baton, I’m proud of everything we have accomplished together. We may be facing uncertain times, but I am excited and optimistic about what lies ahead.
When I took over the helm at ArtsBuild, I was determined to continue its mission of building stronger communities through the arts, with a focus on arts access, education, and leadership.
One of our proudest achievements has been amplifying the economic and social impact of the arts in Chattanooga-Hamilton County. According to the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study, our nonprofit arts and culture sector generates nearly $200 million in economic activity while supporting well over 3,000 jobs in our county. These numbers are more than statistics—they represent the livelihoods of artists, the vibrancy of our neighborhoods, and the energy that draws visitors to our city.
We’ve also expanded opportunities for artists and arts organizations through innovative programs. The Periscope CHA: Artist Entrepreneur Training, launched in 2023, empowers local artists to develop entrepreneurial skills, culminating in a showcase that highlights their creative and professional growth. Additionally, the Imagine! program, which brings free arts experiences to all of Hamilton County’s K–5 students annually, has continued to inspire the next generation of creatives.
Together, we have proven that the arts are not just an enhancement to life in Chattanooga—they are essential to who we are and who we aspire to be.
— Rowena Belcher
The road has not been without challenges. The arts sector, like many others, faced significant hurdles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Full-time artists left the industry, and galleries and performance spaces struggled to recover. ArtsBuild responded with agility, establishing an emergency fund to provide grants to artists for essential needs.
As I pass the baton to new leadership, I am confident that ArtsBuild will continue to thrive. ArtsBuild is poised to further elevate Chattanooga’s reputation as a hub of creativity and innovation. The Holmberg Arts Leadership Institute, now serving its largest class ever, will continue to cultivate the next generation of arts advocates and leaders.
To the Chattanooga community, I urge you to remain steadfast in your support for ArtsBuild. Your donations, volunteerism, and advocacy are the lifeblood of our mission. A gift to the Annual Campaign or participation in its Advocacy program can ensure that the arts continue to enrich our lives and economy.
To our donors and supporters—thank you. Your generosity and commitment have made my time as Chair profoundly meaningful. Together, we have proven that the arts are not just an enhancement to life in Chattanooga—they are essential to who we are and who we aspire to be. I look forward to watching ArtsBuild continue to build a stronger, more vibrant community through the transformative power of the arts.