CINCINNATI—ArtWorks is delighted to welcome Elizabeth (Liz) LaCause to the organization as senior director of advancement. She brings a wealth of experience from the cultural arts industry, along with strong leadership and fundraising skills. In her new role, she will oversee ArtWorks’ strategic planning and execution of sponsorships, donor support (both individual and institutional giving), and grants. Her efforts will advance ArtWorks’ mission of creating community-based public art while providing career opportunities for artists of all ages.
LaCause brings over 20 years of experience as a nonprofit arts leader. Prior to joining ArtWorks, she served as director of development for Ballet Tech in New York for over six years. Her extensive background also includes roles such as director of development for the National Guild for Community Arts Education, director of development & communications for Career Transition for Dancers, and executive director for RIOULT Dance NY. Additionally, she has held positions such as producer/creative director for Festivals in Concert, executive director for The Staten Island Chamber Music Players, and acting director/associate director of performing arts for the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. She began her career as a production manager for New York City Ballet.
LaCause holds a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Regis University, as well as a bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College. Having lived in Cincinnati for the past three years, she is excited to contribute to the local arts community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Liz to the arts community in Cincy and to the ArtWorks leadership team,” said Colleen Houston, ArtWorks CEO and artistic director. “ArtWorks is in such an exciting growth phase, building a creative campus and expanding our artist employment model. Our staff is stronger than ever before and Liz will be an integral part of our mission, broadening our impact on the community while working
ArtWorks has been empowering young artists aged 14–21 through summer and after-school job opportunities since 1996. Expanding its reach in 2022, the organization introduced year-round studio programs. Additionally, ArtWorks offers a Gallery Fellowship Program, providing mentorship and exhibition opportunities for young adult artists aged 16–24.
“ArtWorks presents a unique opportunity to contribute to its rapid growth,” said LaCause. “Cincinnati’s vibrant arts scene and sense of community inspires me, and I’m honored to be part of this journey.”
In late 2024, ArtWorks will relocate its studios, galleries, and administrative staff to a new, consolidated home at 2429 Gilbert Ave in Walnut Hills. Construction is currently underway on this historic building.
Who We Are
Since 1996, ArtWorks has collaborated with community organizations and residents, businesses, governments, foundations, and nonprofits to build creative works of art that support the Greater Cincinnati region’s global reputation as an arts destination. ArtWorks has employed and trained over 3,500 professional artists and 4,000 youth, ages 14–24. We invest in our creative economy by creating jobs that support local talent, pairing professional artists to inspire and mentor diverse teams of youth, and helping them build 21st-century career-readiness skills. Over the past 27 years, this collaborative approach has created a citywide gallery with more than 14,000 public and private art projects, including more than 300 permanent outdoor murals.
