The Modern Dispatch

City Government

3 articles

Diverse hands contributing story fragments to a glowing abstract city representing Albuquerque's 'Stories of Us' initiative.
Culture

Albuquerque Arts Director Retires, Leaving 'Stories of Us' Legacy

After investing $1.5 million in city funds and earning national recognition for its innovative approach, Albuquerque's 'Stories of Us' initiative now faces an uncertain future. Its champion, Arts & Cu

Elise Marrow·June 23, 2026
A neglected public sculpture covered in dust, with a desaturated city skyline in the background, representing the impact of arts funding cuts.
Culture

Public art funding is being reclassified as a luxury, not a necessity.

San Diego's Mayor Todd Gloria proposed slashing city grants for arts and culture programs by nearly 85%, reducing funding from approximately $13.

Elise Marrow·June 18, 2026
Fayetteville cityscape with artists collaborating and celebrating, symbolizing new leadership in arts and culture.
Culture

Fayetteville Names Raven Cook Arts Director, Starts May 2026

Fayetteville is poised to directly invest approximately $100,000 in its artists, a commitment solidified by the selection of Raven Cook as its future Arts and Culture Director, a role set to begin in May 2026.

Theo Ashford·April 24, 2026