"As I look around the region in 2025, I see growth and vitality fueled by the arts," says Mel Gravely, Executive Chair of Triversity Construction. "This didn't happen by accident." Gravely spoke to local business, arts and community leaders in the Cincinnati Art Museum's new Marek-Weaver Family Commons. The occasion? Kicking off ArtsWave's 2025 Community Campaign, in which he serves as Campaign Chair. This year's theme, "Discover Together," highlights the power of the arts to build connections and bridge divides in our community.

A City on the Rise
As Gravely explained at the kickoff, the benefits of the arts "happened through decades of intentional and consistent investment." That consistent, nearly century-long investment has lifted Cincinnati's arts sector to new heights and significant national recognition.

In 2024, BLINK^®, illuminated by ArtsWave, shattered previous attendance records, drawing over two million visitors to the region. The region continues to make its mark on the national stage, ranking among the top 20 most arts-vibrant regions in the U.S. for the fourth consecutive year and earning the #1 spot for street art according to USA Today. In a testament to Cincinnati's growing influence, the city is set to host the Americans for the Arts national convention for the first time this summer.

New Spaces, New Opportunities
The arts community is experiencing unprecedented growth. The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati is breathing new life into the historic Emery Theater, while the Fitton Center for Creative Arts expands its reach with a new satellite education facility in West Chester. These developments are complemented by ArtWorks' new home in Walnut Hills, the Clifton Cultural Arts Center's new facility, and FotoFocus's plans for a permanent home. These spaces are more than just buildings — they represent new opportunities for community engagement and artistic expression.

The Power of Community Support
ArtsWave's 2024 campaign set an impressive benchmark, raising $12.5 million. Gravely stressed that 2024 should become the foundation for future growth rather than an anomaly. The 2025 Campaign has already gained significant momentum, with the Executive Leaders Challenge showing strong early results. Thanks to the Greater Cincinnati Foundation's generous challenge grant, the first 100 gifts of $5,000 or more were matched with an additional $500, creating an immediate impact.

How You Can Support the Arts
ArtsWave funding supports over 150 local arts organizations, projects and artists. Community members can get involved in several ways:
• Donate through workplace giving campaigns at 200+ regional companies
• Participate in special fundraising events
• Give directly at artswave.org/give

As a thank-you, donors receive exclusive benefits such as Reds and Music Hall tickets, behind-the-scenes experiences, and access to special events.

The 2025 ArtsWave Community Campaign runs through the end of May. To donate or learn more, visit artswave.org. You can also download the new ArtsWave App at artswave.org/app or search in your preferred app store.

Together, we can discover the power of the arts to strengthen our community and shape our region's identity.