Tuscarawas Arts Partnership celebrates 10 years of creative impact

The Tuscarawas Arts Partnership is marking the close of its 10th anniversary year, reflecting on a decade of strengthening the arts, supporting local creatives and building community through culture. Since its founding, TAP has grown into a leading arts organization in the region, and its anniversary celebration offered a chance to honor that growth through special events and initiatives.

The year began with TAP’s 10th Anniversary Kickoff Party, which brought together artists, partners, supporters and community members to reflect on TAP’s early beginnings and its progress over the past decade. The event set the tone for a year of creativity, collaboration and renewed commitment to the arts.

One highlight was the Ebony & Ivory Arts Soirée, a new signature event celebrating the richness and diversity of the local arts community through visual art, live performances and a silent auction. TAP also hosted its annual mini golf outing, offering a playful way for supporters to gather while raising funds for arts programming.

Earlier in the year, TAP held its Arts Signing Day, modeled after athletic signing ceremonies, to recognize students committing to arts education and creative careers. TAP also continued its Adelante Arts Camp, providing immersive arts programming for youth in the Latino community. Educational opportunities expanded through TAP’s ArtsThrive workshops, which provide training, resources and professional development for local artists.

A new addition to the anniversary year was TAP’s inaugural cornhole tournament, a lively fundraiser that drew teams from across the region and invited new participants into the arts community.

Throughout its anniversary year, TAP continued its core mission: supporting artists, hosting public programming, expanding partnerships and advocating for the social and economic value of the arts. Over the past decade the organization has worked with hundreds of local artists, launched programs that promote cultural heritage and creative placemaking, and produced major community events such as Art on the Alley, which draws thousands to downtown Dover and New Philadelphia. TAP also continued its Tuscarawas Arts Support Grant program, providing funding for arts projects throughout the community.

“Ten years is an extraordinary milestone for the Tuscarawas Arts Partnership,” said Executive Director Wilma Mullet. “This year allowed us to celebrate the people and stories that shaped TAP’s first decade while also building momentum for the next 10 years, the arts yet to be imagined. We are grateful to everyone who has walked alongside us, especially our volunteers, donors, artists, partners and community members. Their support has made this growth possible.”

Looking ahead, TAP plans to expand access to the arts, support creative professionals and strengthen the impact of arts and culture across Tuscarawas County. With new partnerships forming and established programs continuing to grow, the organization aims to carry its anniversary momentum into its next chapter.

“The arts have the power to connect, inspire and transform communities,” Mullet said. “We are excited for what the next decade will bring and committed to ensuring that creativity continues to thrive in Tuscarawas County.”

More information about TAP’s programs and events can be found at tuscarawasartspartnership.org.