Mission Statement

The Raton Arts & Humanities Council was founded in January 1988, and becamethe designated City of Raton Arts Council in August 1991. The Council is anon-profit corporation representing the arts and humanities in Raton andsurrounding communities.

The mission of the Council's to encourage and strengthen the cultural life of thearea, providing residents, whether trained or untrained in the arts, with
opportunities for artistic participation, self-expression, education and enjoyment.

The Council's programs are designed to meet several goals and objectives: one ofthe most important is to further the development, learning and appreciation of thearts in recognition of the fact that the arts are important to the well being of acommunity and its citizens. It has become increasingly recognized across thecountry that a dynamic cultural atmosphere is of economic value to a community,providing an attraction for visitors and tourists as well as prospective businessesand residents. This in turn inherently increases the monetary and human values ofthe arts. Other goals include enriching quality of life, enhancing educationalprograms, fostering creativity, self-esteem building, and increasing appreciation ofall artistic disciplines.