About Arts Kentucky

Arts Kentucky was founded in 1995 as the Kentucky Assembly of Local Arts Agencies, serving as a coalition of local arts groups that provided networking and services for organizations around the state. After some limited success, KALAA regrouped in the late '90s as it became the service provider for the Kentucky Peer Advisory Network (KPAN) with funding from the Kentucky Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

Also in the late '90s, the organization hired Trish Salerno as Executive Director, merged with Kentucky Citizens for the Arts to take on an advocacy role, and started employing Cecelia Wooden as a Legislative Agent for lobbying activities. It was at this time that the name "Arts Kentucky" was adopted.

In 2007, Trish went on sabbatical, and the organization went through some transition as Trish decided to pursue other opportunities later in the year. After a statewide search, the Board hired David Cupps as the new Executive Director as of February 1, 2008.

David Cupps, Executive Director

After a career as a financial advisor from 1997 to 2003, David decided to enter the nonprofit sector as a development director. Most recently, he served as Interim Executive Director for Explorium of Lexington, a children's museum, after serving as their Director of Development and Associate Director.

A lifelong instrumental and vocal musician, David brings a long history of community involvement and activism to Arts Kentucky. He is also a consultant in fundraising, strategic planning, and website development. He looks forward to using these talents as he works with Arts Kentucky's board, members, and other volunteers and organizations that promote the arts.