The Department of Arts and History was established by City Ordinance in March 2008 to enhance the Boise community by providing leadership, advocacy, education, services, and support for arts and history. The new Department emerged from the former Boise City Arts Commission, which was established by City Ordinance in 1978 as a nonprofit city agency to advise and assist the City Council in development, coordination, promotion and support of the arts.

Vision The City's arts, culture, and history are integral parts of our everyday experience and a vivid expression of our diversity, depth, and dreams.

Mission To enhance Boise's community by providing leadership, advocacy, education, services, and support for arts and history.

The Department is the definitive source for Boise public art, cultural programs, and public history projects. Their website is located at Boise City's Department of Arts and History