By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota
Learning, sharing and exchanging ideas are all excellent reasons for participating in the biennial State Arts Conference April 24 and 25 in Rapid City. But even more exciting is the chance to connect with people who share your passion for the arts. That person-to-person contact is the best way to grow our South Dakota creative community. Whether you teach, are an artist, enjoy imaginative entertainment or advocate for more cultural opportunities, it’s a revitalizing experience to interact with people who share your enthusiasm! At the State Arts Conference, you’ll have the chance to meet and greet arts leaders from the national arts organizations, and the folks like you who work to make the arts happen in their communities. You have a lot to share—and you’re invited to the conversation!
The sessions, keynotes and workshops at the State Arts Conference are too numerous to mention here—just check out the list at ArtsSouthDakota.org—but every one of them is packed with information that will improve your ability to advocate, create and enjoy the arts. Why not pick up a few tips, some new strategies and a fresh perspective on the cultural atmosphere of our state and nation? Who knows what ideas will spring from what you hear!
When people get together at happenings like the 2026 State Arts Conference, new lines of communication are formed, innovative alliances are created and the state of South Dakota gets more connected. Your participation in the conference strengthens the statewide network of people who care about the arts, and we grow our creative community.
Please join me in Rapid City to help build the future of the arts across South Dakota and celebrate our unique creative environment. It’s going to be a great time to connect—I hope to see you there!
To check out the schedules, performances, speakers and learning opportunities, and to register for the 2026 State Arts Conference—registration closes April 17—visit ArtsSouthDakota.org.
