In addition to its investments, the VCA contributes to the arts ecosystem of Virginia through special initiatives.
Passport Program
The Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA) is excited to partner with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to launch the Passport Program, an arts access initiative. This program provides free or discounted tickets to arts organizations across the Commonwealth, including museums, performances, classes, and special events that provide opportunities to engage with the arts ecosystem in Virginia, regardless of income.
Poetry Out Loud
The words of great poets literally come to life in Poetry Out Loud, a literary arts program created by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Poetry Foundation. The Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA) supports students across the Commonwealth enriched by this arts education program that encourages memorization, performance, and public speaking skills. Learn more, here.
Virginia Poet Laureate
Mattie Quesenberry Smith, Ph.D. was named the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Poet Laureate by Governor Youngkin on November 26, 2024, a role in which she will serve a two-year term. The VCA is excited to be working with Dr. Smith in partnership with our Poetry Out Loud (POL) initiative. Learn more here.