The City of Fayetteville announced on Apr. 23 that Raven Cook has been selected as its new Arts and Culture Director. Cook, who is known for her work as an educator, community organizer, broadcaster, and scholar, will oversee the implementation of the city’s Arts and Culture Plan and act as staff representative for the Fayetteville Arts Council.
Cook’s appointment comes at a time when Fayetteville is working to enhance its creative ecosystem. As part of her role within the Parks and Recreation Department, she will also serve as liaison to the Creative Arkansas Community Hub and Exchange (CACHE).
“We can’t wait to welcome Raven to the team, where she will continue the momentum of working with the creative ecosystem to put the Arts and Culture Plan into action,” Alison Jumper, Director of the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department, said.
Cook previously worked as an Associate Museum Educator at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. She led professional development sessions for Arkansas educators on teaching race and Black history. In addition to serving as Director of Education at Mosaic Templars in 2021, Cook launched ‘Reflections in Black,’ a weekly segment on KUAF 91.3 FM’s Ozarks at Large that explores Black American legacies.
While earning her Master’s Degree from University of Arkansas’ inaugural Art History in the Arts of the Americas program, Cook interned at CACHE identifying grant opportunities and developing resources for artists. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from University of Arkansas.
Cook is also founder of Foundations: Black History Educational Programming which aims to bring Black history into classrooms across Arkansas. She was chosen for Studio Museum of Harlem’s 2021 Cohort and received Northwest Arkansas Black Action Collective’s first Excellence in the Arts award.
“Arts and culture are essential to how people experience Fayetteville,” Mayor Molly Rawn said. “Raven brings both creative vision and a strong community connection. She understands how culture shapes place, and we’re excited for her to lead this next chapter.”
As director, Cook plans to strengthen local arts organizations so they can showcase Fayetteville as an arts destination while encouraging public support for cultural tourism.
“I’m honored to step into this role at such an exciting time for Fayetteville,” Cook said. “This community already has a unique creative spirit. I’m looking forward to working alongside artists, organizations, and residents to build something focused on art and community that can be replicated in cities across the US.”
Cook will begin her new position on May 26.
