COMMISSION FOR ARTS & CULTURE

The Commission for Arts & Culture serves in an advisory capacity to the Mayor and City Council on promoting, encouraging, and increasing support for artistic and cultural assets, integrating arts and culture into community life, and showcasing Rochester as a regional tourist destination for the arts. The commission meets on the third Thursday of January and May at 7pm in the Rochester City Hall Chamber Boardroom. The commission also meets after the Rochester Arts Awards in August.

The purpose of this commission is to implement the “Arts and Cultural Resources Master Plan” by: Encouraging public appreciation of the vital contribution of the arts and culture to the community’s quality of life;  Promoting community engagement with the arts and culture;  Fostering pride in the artistic and cultural accomplishments of the past and present;  Safeguarding the artistic and cultural heritage of the City;  Cultivating the aesthetic, artistic, and cultural appeal of Rochester to residents, businesses, artists, visitors, shoppers, and other interested parties;  Increasing community and economic development, including tourism, through promotion of the creative economy.

What we do

The Commission for Arts & Culture is an appointed group of artists, writers, and residents working together to further the advancement of the arts in Rochester, NH.  

The commission manages an extensive online database of arts-related businesses, organizations, and groups.  Categories include: Arts & Entertainment, Dining & Lodging, Outdoor Recreation, and Specialty.  The public is encouraged to nominate new entries.  Businesses, organizations, and groups submitted must contribute to the arts and positively represent the City of Rochester.  Entries are accepted at the discretion of the commission.

Once a year the commission celebrates the annual Rochester Arts Awards recognizing individuals that have contributed significantly to the arts.  Guests and honorees gather at the Governors Inn for a small reception where certificates of excellence are presented.

About Rochester, NH

Rochester, known as the Lilac City, is located in southeastern New Hampshire.  With a population of almost 30,000, Rochester is one of the largest cities in the state. Encompassing over 44 square miles of rolling hills and rivers, Rochester is a scenic delight and serves as the gateway to New Hampshire's famous Lakes Region, White Mountains, and Seacoast beaches.

Rochester's commitment to economic development has spurred major growth in manufacturing and high-tech companies. The City continues to diversify, strengthen and grow as economic and industrial expansions attract new residents to the area.

Cultural and recreational activities include the Rochester Opera House, the Rochester Country Club, The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, the historic Carnegie Library, restaurants, hiking trails, family parks, and shopping centers.  Combined with its natural beauty, easy access and many opportunities, Rochester is the place to be.

Members

Matt Wyatt Chair, Rochester Museum of Fine Arts/Rochester Opera House; 
Michael Provost, Rochester Main Street; Elaine M. Lauterborn, Rochester City Council; 
​Amy Regan, Rochester Museum of Fine Arts; Michelle Mears, City Liaison;
Katie Hogan O'Connor, Poet Laureate 

Meeting Dates

Thursday, May 18th, 2017
Monday, August 14th, 2017  (Rochester Arts Awards)
​Thursday, January 18th, 2018