Inspire. Engage. Unite.

Inspire. Engage. Unite. 

The mission of Berks Arts is to inspire, engage and unite our community through arts education, collaboration and presentation. Today, in everything Berks Arts does and supports, we seek to make Berks County, PA a more creative, more desirable, and a more resilient community.

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July 27, 2026 Press Release

After 55 years of serving the Berks County community through arts education, cultural programming, festivals, grants, and advocacy, Berks Arts Council has made the difficult decision to cease operations.

Since its founding, Berks Arts Council has worked to enrich the quality of life in our community by supporting artists, connecting residents to cultural experiences, and fostering creativity throughout Berks County. The organization has proudly presented and supported countless performances, exhibitions, educational programs, and community events—including beloved traditions that have brought people together across generations.

"This decision was not made lightly," said Tish Davis, Executive Director. "We are deeply grateful to the artists, volunteers, donors, sponsors, board members, staff, and community partners who have supported our mission over the past 55 years. Their dedication has helped create a lasting impact on the cultural vibrancy of Berks County."

While the organization is closing its doors, its legacy will live on through the thousands of individuals whose lives have been enriched by the arts, the partnerships built throughout the community, and the cultural traditions that will continue to inspire future generations.

Berks Arts Council extends its heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has been part of its journey over the past five and a half decades.

For more information on future Boscov’s Berks Jazz Festivals please contact: John Ernesto at johnernesto@comcast.net .

 

For additional information, please contact:

Tish Davis
Executive Director
Berks Arts Council
P.O. Box 12763

Reading, PA 19612

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  • The camaraderie between the jazz aficionados attending the shows, as well as, the volunteers & staff is always such a great experience for me The opportunity to hear new music and interact with some of the musicians is also wonderful! I love the positive energy this festival brings to the city of Reading.

    — Ann Marie M.

  • Berks Arts Council is one of the best organizations to volunteer for.

    — Gloria S.

  • It’s a great way to give back to the community. Also, it's fun and you get to hear lots of great music and meet nice people.

    — Neal S.

  • The Art of Jazz exhibition is designed to let visual artists translate various media, various ideas, and concepts through the musical experience of jazz. It's a great way to celebrate artists that do visual art and sort of celebrate the attitude and the personality of jazz.

    — Tim Compton, artistic director at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.