Established in 1965 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit in 1968, the Arts Council continues to initiate, encourage, and expand activities which open new opportunities for all artists, students, and residents of the Santa Maria valley.

Council members include artists, arts advocates, educators, city and government leaders, business, and various art groups.

The Council meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month at noon. Our present meeting location is the Town Center Gallery, upstairs near Macy's in the Santa Maria Town Center.

Members are afforded an opportunity to network, share members news, and organize the numerous annual events of which the Council administers and participates.
The Council administers the Lester B. Hayes Grant, the Dr. Christopher Kuzell Classical Music Grant, and Audrey Silva Dance Grants.
We host the Individual Grants Competition which culminates in the Grants Showcase which last year disbursed $8,000 to first and second place finalists in music, drama, dance, and visual arts.
The Council organizes the annual Student Arts Show and Chalk Art Expose and participates in the Autumn Arts Grapes and Grains Festival.