Town of Waxhaw Recognizes October as National Arts & Humanities Month
The Town of Waxhaw Board of Commissioners has officially proclaimed October as National Arts & Humanities Month. Mayor Robert J. Murray III encourages residents to celebrate and engage with local arts and culture throughout the month, emphasizing the important role creative pursuits play in the community.
Established in 1993, National Arts & Humanities Month is an annual observance promoting public participation in the arts while recognizing their significant contributions to society. The celebration underscores the arts' role in stimulating economic growth, driving innovation, and shaping cultural identity.
This proclamation resulted from collaboration between Town Staff, the Downtown Waxhaw Association, and local nonprofit arts and culture organizations. The joint effort aims to promote and celebrate the arts in our community, recognizing the significant contributions of local artists, cultural institutions, and community organizations in enriching our town's cultural landscape.
The Impact of Arts & Culture
Arts and culture have a profound influence on both individual and community well-being. Research shows that participation in the arts improves mental health, sparks creativity, and supports cognitive development, especially in children. Students involved in the arts often excel academically, while communities with strong arts programs experience higher levels of engagement and social connection.
In North Carolina, the arts and culture sector is a major economic driver, generating $22 billion annually, supporting more than 134,000 jobs, and contributing 3.08% to the state’s GDP—outpacing major industries such as transportation and utilities. Creative industries also boost tourism, attract skilled professionals, and help fuel local economies, often leading to higher household incomes and an improved quality of life.
Spotlight on Regional Arts in Union County
The Union County Arts Council (UCAC) plays a key role in the regional arts scene by providing grants, educational programs, and community events that celebrate creativity. UCAC awards more than $60,000 annually to support local artists and organizations. In partnership with schools, UCAC brings professional artists into classrooms, impacting over 20,000 students each year.
Waxhaw’s Local Arts Scene
Waxhaw’s thriving arts community is supported by local businesses such as Art Box Ceramics, Bean & Belle Art Studio, and Eight Legs Gallery, which provide spaces for artists to develop and showcase their work. AR Workshop offers guided craft sessions, while Maxwell’s Window Art Gallery features local talent. Specialty stores like Tangles and The Bead Merchant cater to traditional crafts enthusiasts. Retailers such as Indigo Pearl, Mule Barn Mercantile, and Stewart’s Village Gallery highlight the town’s commitment to craftsmanship, showcasing handmade goods from skilled artisans.
Waxhaw's public art initiatives, including the Sculpture Walk and Mural Project, transform downtown into an open-air gallery. These projects not only beautify the streetscape but also strengthen the area's economic vitality.
The town is also home to a flourishing theatre scene. The Storefront Theatre, now in its 17th season, specializes in reader’s theatre, while Waxhaw Community Theatre and RAH! Theatre offer opportunities for residents of all ages to experience and participate in live performances.
Upcoming Performances
The Storefront Theatre will present “Trifles” and “Tennessee” on October 26-27 at The Museum of the Waxhaws.
Waxhaw Community Theatre will perform “A Christmas Carol Live Radio Play” in December.
RAH! Theatre is preparing for “Aladdin Jr.” following their recent performance of “Heathers the Musical.”
This October, Waxhaw invites everyone to connect with their community and creative spirit during National Arts & Humanities Month!