Why Art to GO-GO? - ArttoGOGO

Why Art to GO-GO

Welcome to the Anacostia Arts and Culture District

Anacostia Arts and Culture District – Art to Go-Go

Welcome to the Anacostia Arts and Culture District

The East of the River community has long faced challenges, from limited food options to crime, and more recently, the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, our artists, small businesses, and local residents have tapped into their creativity and resilience to navigate these difficulties. The closure of offices and government agencies in Ward 8 and Ward 7 placed many businesses in an uncertain position, but they continue to find ways to survive and grow.

Now is the time to transition from survival to thriving, fostering a community that flourishes through collaboration and artistic expression. Washington, D.C. is a world-class destination, and we must be intentional about establishing an Arts and Culture District that represents the vibrancy and talent of Ward 8 and Ward 7. Inspired by the vision of the Anacostia BID, we are building a comprehensive, proactive, responsive, and cultural ecosystem that transforms the Anacostia River area into a premier destination for arts and culture.

Our mission is to cultivate a thriving arts and culture district that celebrates creativity, fosters economic growth, and empowers artists and businesses in Ward 7 and Ward 8. Through collaboration, comprehensive engagement, and innovation, we aim to transform Anacostia into a vibrant cultural hub that uplifts the community and attracts visitors from around the world.

WHAT WE DO

Support and promote local artists and cultural initiatives.

Organize community-driven arts events and public installations.

Provide platforms for artists to showcase their work.

Foster partnerships between businesses and artists to enhance community engagement.

Promote arts and culture organizations to expand their reach and impact.

Collaborate with and promote arts and culture organizations to support community and artist education.

Utilize placemaking to shape the area's transformation by integrating arts, culture, and technology, creating a vibrant sense of place that stimulates the local economy and strengthens community connections.

Connect local artists with regional, national, and international audiences and opportunities, expanding their reach and impact beyond Anacostia.

Impact Data

40 public works in Anacostia

Art to Go-Go provided 400+ Paid Artists Job in 2024

70% Increase Revenue

for Restaurants during Art to Go-Go Events

80+ Riders Per Day

Art to Go-Go Shuttle serves 70-100 Riders Per Day

400+ Paid Artists Job

Art to Go-Go provided 400+ Paid Artists Job in 2024

3,800 organizations

Over 3,800 arts, culture and humanities organizations in the greater Washington, DC metro Area

30,000 jobs

Over 30,000 jobs in the arts, culture and humanities nonprofits in the greater Washington, DC metro Area earning more than $6 billion in revenue each year

Real Impact

68% OF TOURISM IN U.S. DRIVEN BY ART

35.3 MILLION TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS

CULTURAL TOURISTS SPEND 2X MORE

20% RISE IN PROPERTY VALUES

Having a cultural organization in a community has been shown to increase nearby residential property values by up to 20 percent.

15% OF HOUSEHOLDERS CHOOSE NEIGHBORHOODS BASED ON ACCESS TO ARTS AND CULTURE

ARTS SUPPORT 4.9 MILLION JOBS

CREATIVITY TOP 3 DESIRED SKILL BY EMPLOYERS

50% OF EXECUTIVES CREDIT THE ARTS TO THEIR CAREER SUCCESS

Partnerships

Strong partnerships, especially public-private collaborations, are essential for organizations like Art to Go-Go because they leverage resources, expertise, and networks to drive sustainable impact. Public-private partnerships help bridge funding gaps, enhance community engagement, and provide access to infrastructure, policy support, and marketing channels. By working together, stakeholders can foster economic growth, support local artists, and ensure that cultural initiatives thrive. These collaborations also strengthen advocacy efforts, improve public safety, and create lasting opportunities that benefit both the community and businesses involved.

Interested in partnering with Art to Go-Go?

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Join Us in Making the Anacostia area a Premier Arts Destination!

Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or arts enthusiast, there are numerous ways to participate. Get involved, explore, and celebrate the vibrant creativity of the Anacostia area! Here’s how:

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL – Composed of artists, business and community leaders with a wide range of skills and expertise to help nurture and grow the Anacostia Arts and Culture District – Art to Go-Go. The Council’s focus is to help develop and promote community involvement in the Anacostia BID through arts, entertainment, and cultural activities. Would you like to be part of the ACE Council? If so, email info@arttogogo.org.

Volunteer: Assist in events, workshops, discussions and community outreach.
Donate: Support the development of local arts initiatives.
Sponsor: Partner with us to invest in arts initiatives and cultural growth.
Artist Submissions: Apply to have your work featured in exhibitions, murals, or events.
Join the Creative Collective: Are you an artist or creative? Join our Creative Collective to 1) Become part of the Art to Go-Go community and network with fellow creatives 2) Explore creative opportunities 3) Access resources such as grants, exhibitions, housing and more!