More Arts in More Classrooms for More Students

Every student in Hamilton County deserves access to a rich arts education—not as an extra, but as an essential part of learning. ArtsBuild partners with schools, educators, and teaching artists to bring more arts into more classrooms and connect students with professional arts experiences that expand their world.

ArtsBuild’s goal, in line with the Imagine Chattanooga 20/20 cultural plan, is to ensure that all children and families in Hamilton County will have access to high-quality arts and cultural education through a comprehensive and sequential system.

The arts are far more than an extracurricular activity; they are a vital laboratory for applied learning. In our programs, students don’t just "make art"—they build the essential toolkit of the modern leader. Through creative practice, we cultivate strong communicators, effective collaborators, and agile creative thinkers.

Our programs are designed to support students, educators, parents, and community stakeholders in making the arts accessible to all. By doing so, we ensure every participant gains high-level skills—like resiliency, self-confidence, and cultural awareness—that translate directly to any career field. We aren’t just teaching students how to paint or perform; we are building the leaders and engaged citizens of tomorrow.