City of the Arts

Our Goal... “Tampa will be a place that celebrates the works of artists, writers, performers, film makers and all forms of fine and commercial arts professionals, providing opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy and be enriched by a wide array of creative pursuits while encouraging the growth of creative businesses.”

The City of Tampa recognizes the importance of both the non-profit arts and the commercial arts to a creative city. The arts enhance our quality of life and they are a key player in the economic development of our city. The City of Tampa’s arts objectives include making the city a magnet for talented people, who are drawn by the area's economic and artistic opportunities, diversity, and quality of life. We also seek to attract national and international visitors who come to experience Tampa’s authentic cultural, historic and arts assets.

Tampa was the first major city to develop a Creative Industries office. The office works to promote the arts, to link art and commerce, to attract talent, and to promote cultural tourism.

The City’s Public Art office promotes the involvement of artists in projects throughout Tampa, to enhance the physical environment, and celebrate our unique character and identity. There are six primary goals of the Tampa Public Art Program: oversee the City of Tampa’s Public Art Collection; enhance the physical environment of Tampa with artworks of the highest level of quality and suitability for the site; serve as the coordinating body for all Public Art and memorial projects on City property; build partnerships with the private sector, non-profit and community groups that connect the Tampa Public Art Program’s projects to the life of the city; encourage participation by artists based in the city and Tampa Bay region; serve as an active source of information about Public Art.

The City’s strategy recognizes the important role that arts organizations and institutions play in making Tampa a City of the Arts and emphasizes a continued partnership between the City and these organizations in identifying issues, needs and opportunities. Organizations receiving support include the Tampa Theatre, Tampa Museum of Art, David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, The Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, Plant Museum, The Florida Orchestra, and numerous other organizations.

We have also expanded arts into neighborhoods through the programs of our Parks and Recreation Department and our Public Art office. A city-funded Pops In The Park series, presents the Florida Orchestra in free outdoor concerts throughout the city.