Welcome to the New Year at the Iredell Arts Council
Happy New Year—and welcome to the Iredell Arts Council.
Before anything else, we want to begin with gratitude. Truly. Thank you for showing up, for coming to events, for believing in this work, and for supporting the Arts Council in ways both visible and behind the scenes. This community makes everything we do possible.
As we step into a new year, there is real momentum behind the Iredell Arts Council—and we’re excited to share where we’re headed, invite you into what’s next, and welcome you to explore our newly redesigned website.
Why the Arts Council Matters
In 2025, the impact of the arts in Iredell County has been undeniable.
More than $190,000 invested directly into Iredell County’s arts economy
$64,000 in grant support reinvested back into our community, supporting 12 local arts organizations
178 artists supported, with real dollars going directly into artists’ pockets
Our highest recorded economic impact from the Full Bloom Film Festival, bringing over $250,000 into Downtown Statesville
This matters because it proves something many of us already know: the talent here is real. But it also shows that the arts are more than something we attend or admire—they are an engine for community connection, economic growth, and identity.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: art connects us. It connects us to each other, to our community, and to ourselves. In an increasingly isolating world, shared creative experiences matter more than ever. The Arts Council exists to create those spaces, places outside of work and home where people can gather, experience something meaningful, and feel like they belong.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Programming at the Old Jail
In 2026, the Arts Council will host 45 events right here at the Old Jail. What we want to share is a glimpse of the year ahead—and the quality, diversity, and heart behind the work.
Something New: A Brand-New Concert Series
We’re also thrilled to announce a new concert series launching in 2026, born directly from an artist’s experience at the Arts Council.
After performing with Amanda Platt and the Honeycutters, steel pedal guitarist Matthew Smith was so inspired by the space, the audience, and the community that he approached us with an idea: a concert series featuring musicians from his network, paired with interview-style conversations.
That idea is now a five-part series—and it’s a perfect example of the Arts Council at its best. Because of our patrons, our space, and the warmth of this community, artists want to come back and reinvest their creativity here.
Concert Series Highlights
Our Concert Series is one of the most anticipated parts of our programming year. These intimate shows bring nationally and regionally recognized musicians into a setting where audiences can truly connect with the music, the artists, and one another.
The series spans Americana, folk, blues, indie, and roots music, featuring standout performers like Vanessa Collier, Larry Keel, and Driftwood, along with many other incredible artists throughout the season.
Because of the intimate nature of these performances, seating is limited. Patron-level members of the Iredell Arts Council receive secured seating and early access, making membership one of the best ways to fully experience this series.
→ View the full Artist Concert Series lineup and details on our website
Art Show Series
Our Art Show Series runs throughout the year and serves as the backbone of our visual arts programming. Each exhibition invites a new voice and perspective into our galleries, creating space for dialogue, discovery, and connection.
The series features a mix of professional artists, emerging creatives, students, and community-driven exhibitions reflecting the depth and diversity of talent across Iredell County and beyond.
Rather than listing each exhibition here, we encourage you to explore the full Art Show Series on our website, where you’ll find dates, featured artists, exhibition themes, and opportunities to attend opening receptions.
→ View the full Art Show Series schedule and exhibition details on our website
Full Bloom Film Festival & Film Series
The Full Bloom Film Festival returns September 10–12, 2026, bringing independent films from around the world to Downtown Statesville. As the only international film festival in Iredell County, Full Bloom celebrates bold storytelling, emerging filmmakers, and diverse perspectives while creating meaningful cultural and economic impact for our community.
Spoken Word Series
A powerful platform for poets, storytellers, and spoken word artists. This series celebrates the art of performance and the power of language, amplifying local and regional voices and creating space for stories that reflect, challenge, and connect our community.
Become a Member. Be Part of the Why.
When you become a member of the Iredell Arts Council, you’re not just supporting events… you’re investing in artists, access, education, and connection across our county. Membership helps ensure that the arts remain open, inclusive, and thriving for everyone.
As we move into the new year, we invite you to:
Attend events
Bring a friend
Meet an artist
Explore our new website
And consider becoming a member
Thank you for being part of this community. We’re honored to create alongside you and we can’t wait to welcome you to the year ahead.
Here’s to a creative, connected New Year at the Iredell Arts Council.