Throughout its existence, the organization has been a force for the arts. Its early ambitious projects include bringing musical and theatrical performances from St. Louis and with that, recognition that the Capital City was bereft of an adequate permanent space to exhibit visual arts.   The latter lack was finally met with the opening of the spectacular Capital Arts Gallery.

 From its beginning, the council’s goal has included contributing “to the artistic programs of the elementary and secondary schools,”…”promoting and presenting performances of music, exhibitions of art, programs which would include lectures and demonstrations and the encouragement of community performing groups.”    An early, successful goal of the group was to affiliate with the Missouri Arts Council, to benefit from their expertise and the financial support it offers.   Community involvement has always been important to the council.

Today, Capital Arts not only offers spectacular gallery space for the visual arts, but promotes all the arts through sponsorships and inclusion in its well-read arts calendar.  Its community outreach programs are numerous, and expanding.   Among its newest effort is offering classes for all ages and levels of talent at the Capital Arts Studio.  Capital Arts has a rich history, thanks to the foresight of its founding members, and continues to advocate for the cultural enrichment of all residents of Jefferson City through a diversity of offerings.