Mission Statement: "NAA exists to encourage Nevadans to participate in and enjoy the arts. We develop and support cultural and educational activities designed to sustain funding and foster appreciation of the arts. We work to expand and enhance access to arts opportunities through public awareness, advocacy and outreach."
Nevada Arts Advocates was founded as a non profit 501 (C-3) state wide organization. NAA is a member of the national organization State Arts Action Network (SAAN) and Americans for the Art's.
Initiated in 1987 by Nevada Arts Advocates, Arts Day in Nevada brings the arts community from all corners of Nevada to Carson City during the Legislative session. Arts constituents sit with legislators during the morning session giving them the opportunity to relay the importance of the arts in their respective county. A legislative luncheon and a tea at the Governor's Mansion hosted by Nevada's First Lady or an educational forum will culminate the day.
Also in 1987, NAA recommended and Governor Bob Miller did appoint actress and singer Toni Tennille, an advocate for the arts, as Nevada's Ambassador for the Arts. She was subsequently reappointed by Governor Kenny Guinn in 1999.
The Arts Awareness Luncheons afford local artists, arts organizations and interested citizens the opportunity to network informally and hear speakers on a range of subjects all directed to inform and educate.
A Legislative Arts Caucus comprised of every member of the Legislature was founded by Senator Dina Titus. Current Caucus Chairs are Senator Bill Raggio and Assemblyman and Speaker, Richard Perkins. Nevada Arts Advocates works to increase arts funding to the Nevada Arts Council and distributes funds through grants by the Nevada Arts Council. During the 2001 Legislative session, NAA with the support of the Caucus introduced SB170 which became the Cultural Trust for Nevada.
The NAA Scholarship Program, now in its fifth year, gives scholarships across the state to graduating high school seniors who wish to further their studies in the arts. Four scholarships were awarded in 2006 bringing our total to $15,500 in scholarships awarded since 2000.
With support letters from performance organizations, NAA successfully urged the Legislative Caucus in 2003 to exempt the 10% entertainment tax from non profit cultural events.
NAA recognizes individuals and corporations who have demonstrated leadership in advocacy at an annual Award Gala. The 2006 Award will be presented to Wells Fargo Bank and Nevada Arts Council. Advocacy Recognition will be given to Mayor Oscar Goodman, City of Las Vegas, Senator William Raggio, KNPR Radio and Reno Gazette Journal.
Nevada Arts Advocates is the organization that works for YOU. Membership to Nevada Arts Advocates is open to all citizens.
As these and other events approach, details are noted on our News & Events page.
Nevada Arts Advocates 7555 Spanish Bay Drive Las Vegas, Nevada 89113 702/362-8885
