DAC is dedicated to supporting working artists right here in Sussex County. Through spaces like the West Side Creative Market and Artpothecary, artists have consistent opportunities to showcase and sell their work while connecting directly with the community.

Beyond events, DAC provides resources that help artists grow sustainable businesses — including peer gatherings, virtual business education, the DAC Artist Directory, and services like print production and laser cutting.

Emerge is DAC’s flagship workforce development program designed to help artists build sustainable creative careers. Through a year-long cohort model, artists participate in structured business education, mentorship, accountability partnerships, and community support.

The program combines weekly virtual sessions, in-person gatherings, and a digital hub with tools for pricing, marketing, and client management, helping artists turn their creative practice into a thriving business.

DAC believes creativity has the power to bring communities together. Through programs like the West Side Creative Market, exhibitions at the Artpothecary, and private creative experiences, community members can engage directly with artists while learning about the creative economy.

Creativity isn’t something you simply observe at DAC — it’s something you participate in. Through hands-on activities, our Artist Directory, and experiences like our Creative Market Tours, we help spark meaningful connections between artists and the community.

DAC will continue to grow its local artist ecosystem through the West Side Creative Market, the Artpothecary, and expanded Local Artist Development programming, including our “startup” educational content, groups, and services.

These programs serve as both a community gathering place and a launching point for artists preparing to advance into Emerge. Future plans include expanding Creative Market operating days, strengthening artist opportunities through Fresh Art Pop-Ups at the Artpothecary, and developing new experiences.

Together, these programs create a vibrant creative hub where artists can grow their careers while connecting directly with the community

Our flagship Emerge program will lead the next chapter of DAC’s work. Beginning in 2026, DAC will expand Emerge statewide with new cohorts and strategic partnerships, including a cohort in New Castle County in partnership with the Delaware Art Museum. By 2028, DAC aims to establish a network of Emerge programs that position Delaware as a national model for creative workforce development.

This expansion will be intentional and measured, ensuring that program quality, mentorship, and artist outcomes remain at the center of growth

DAC’s next phase of growth focuses on long-term sustainability so that artists and the community can continue to benefit from these opportunities for years to come. Over the past several years, the organization has strengthened its leadership structure, streamlined operations, and improved financial oversight to support responsible growth.

At the same time, DAC is expanding its network of community support. By continuing to grow earned revenue through programs like the West Side Creative Market and Artpothecary, while cultivating new donor relationships and philanthropic partnerships, DAC is building a resilient model that supports artists while strengthening the creative economy of our region.

This approach ensures that DAC remains deeply rooted in the community — creating opportunities for artists to grow their careers while inviting community members to actively participate in the creative ecosystem.