Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

The Wexner Center is The Ohio State University’s multidisciplinary laboratory for contemporary art and culture.

Through exhibitions, performances, screenings, educational programs, artist residencies, and publications, the Wex serves as a vital forum where artists test ideas and where diverse audiences engage the art and issues of our time.

In its programs, the Wex balances a commitment to experimentation with a critical appreciation of the past. Our work affirms the university’s pursuit of civic participation, freedom of expression, and robust dialogue.

Vision

Advance culture for a vibrant and equitable society.

Values

We invest in artists and the creative process
championing groundbreaking ideas and the spirit of exploration.

We stand with our communities
prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in all we do.

We aim ahead of the curve
supporting transformational experiences and creative breakthroughs.

Views

The Wexner Center for the Arts is privileged to exhibit artwork in many forms by a wide range of artists. Through exhibitions, performances, screenings, educational programs, artist residencies, and publications, the Wexner Center for the Arts serves as a vital forum where artists share ideas and where diverse audiences engage with the art and issues of our time. While the center is committed to this mission, it is important to understand that the views expressed by the artists through their work are their own and do not represent the views of the Wexner Center for the Arts, the Wexner Center Foundation, its trustees, or The Ohio State University. An exhibition, performance, film, talk or any artist’s work shown within the center is not to be construed as approval or endorsement of the artist’s publications, activities, actions, or positions. 

Views of the Wexner Center Foundation Board of Trustees

The Wexner Center for the Arts serves as a vital forum where artists share ideas and where diverse audiences engage with the art and issues of our time.
 
It is important to understand that the views expressed by the artists through their work are their own and do not represent the views of the Wexner Center for the Arts, Wexner Center Foundation, The Ohio State University, or the trustees of such organizations.
 
An exhibition, performance, film, talk, or any artist’s work shown at the Wexner Center for the Arts is not to be construed as approval or endorsement of the artist’s publications, activities, actions, or positions.
 
Acknowledging the foregoing regarding artistic freedom, the Wexner Center for the Arts and the Wexner Center Foundation and its trustees strongly endorse The Ohio State University position condemning all terrorist attacks, including those perpetrated by Hamas on Israeli citizens, Americans, and others on the weekend of October 7th, 2023.

Impact

“The Wexner Center for the Arts has one of the most dynamic contemporary programs in the country.” —Washington Post

Over the past 35 years, the Wexner Center has become an essential cultural and educational resource, helping to spark the evolution of Columbus as a more open, progressive, and sophisticated place to live, work, and play. We support artists in the creation and presentation of new work in all media, providing unparalleled arts experiences to diverse audiences. As a nexus for cultural research, production, and experience—and as a platform for the exchange of ideas—the center is a vital agent for social change.