Located in Blair, a small city in Washington County, Nebraska, the Washington Cultural Arts Center is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. Established in 1995, the center has evolved into a thriving hub for arts, entertainment, and community engagement. Its mission is to provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents, promote cross-cultural understanding, and enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike.

The center boasts a diverse range of programs and activities, including art exhibitions, concerts, theater productions, and educational workshops. The center collaborates with local schools, community groups, and regional artists to curate programs that reflect the unique character of Nebraska. For instance, the center has hosted the annual Blair Art Walk, a popular event that brings together local artists, galleries, and businesses to celebrate the city's vibrant artistic scene.

Visitors can also explore the center's permanent collection of artwork and artifacts, which includes pieces by renowned Nebraska artists such as Kent Bellows and Keith Jacobshagen. Additionally, the center features rotating exhibitions that highlight the work of local and regional artists, as well as touring exhibitions that showcase national and international talent. The center's gallery space is also used for community events, such as lectures, book signings, and performances.

One notable initiative is the center's outreach program, which brings arts education to underserved communities and schools in rural Nebraska. By partnering with local organizations, schools, and community groups, the center is able to provide accessible arts programming to residents who may not have access to such opportunities otherwise. This commitment to community outreach is emblematic of the center's dedication to promoting arts and culture throughout the state.

Moreover, the Washington Cultural Arts Center has a strong focus on preservation and restoration. The center is housed in a historic building, originally constructed as the Old Blair High School in the 1920s. The building has undergone extensive renovations to restore its original grandeur, including the installation of historic windows, renovation of the auditorium, and repair of the historic tile floors.

The center has also played a key role in preserving the region's cultural heritage, by documenting and showcasing the history of Washington County. This has involved the development of exhibitions, publications, and educational materials that highlight the region's rich history, including its Native American roots, early settlement, and agricultural heritage.

The center is adjacent to other historical landmarks, such as the Historic Blair Theatre and the Olde Town Shopping District. Visitors can stroll through the historic district, explore local shops and restaurants, and experience the unique charm of Blair, Nebraska.

The Washington Cultural Arts Center serves as a vital cultural resource for the state of Nebraska, showcasing the best of local and regional arts while preserving the region's rich history. Its commitment to community engagement, outreach, and preservation has earned it a reputation as a vibrant cultural destination in the Midwest.

The center's exemplary work has had far-reaching impacts on the cultural and economic development of Blair and the surrounding region, with notable collaborations with organizations such as the Nebraska Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the local Chamber of Commerce.