The Ventura County Arts Council (VCAC) was formed and incorporated in 1997 as an independent 501 (c) 3 non-profit arts organization. Its charge was to serve all Ventura County residents with an array of arts programs. The Council was designated the “State/Local Partner” in 1997, making it the local recipient of funding from the California State Arts Council; this designation has been renewed regularly by the County Board of Supervisors.

The Council is governed by a Board of Directors and managed by an Executive Director and a part-time office person. It is supported primarily by public and private grants for the programs it provides. Individual memberships also help support the organization financially. The Council is also sustained by its many partners who collaborate on various programs.

The Ventura County Arts Council supports and strengthens the arts by:

Advocating for sustained and increased funding for arts and culture; developing cultural infrastructures and shaping public perception about the arts and culture; promoting quality arts education and learning through the arts in public and private schools; providing a clearinghouse of resources; Promoting dialogue and mutual support among arts organizations and artists; serving as a liaison and advocate for its local constituencies at a regional, state, and national level; and serving county artists, arts organizations and arts in education outreach programs through strong partnerships with arts supporters, businesses, foundations, and community leaders.