The Orange County Arts Council's creation stemmed from a collaboration between the Orange County Citizens Foundation (now Vision Hudson Valley) and Orange County. In 2003, a Cultural Needs Assessment highlighted the need for an Arts and Cultural Strategic Plan and an Arts Council. Following the completion of the plan in 2006, Orange County allocated funds to establish the Council the following year, cementing its role in supporting the region's arts and culture.

Today, the Orange County NY Arts Council is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and diverse community connected by the transformative power of the arts. The Council firmly believes in the ability of the arts to inspire, heal, and unite. It aims to create a sustainable platform for multi-disciplinary art forms, highlighting the work of diverse artists and engaging audiences across Orange County, NY, and beyond. By investing in local arts initiatives, the Council champions creative expression, working to strengthen and expand the presence of arts and culture throughout the region. Its efforts focus on growing and diversifying audiences while deepening their engagement with the arts through dynamic, inclusive programming.

At the core of the Council's values is a commitment to creativity, respect, collaboration, generosity, and joy. The Council encourages artists to experiment and take risks, creating an environment where imagination and innovation thrive. Its work is grounded in respect and inclusivity, fostering collaborations that generate new ideas and opportunities. The Council is committed to sharing knowledge and celebrating collective successes, reinforcing a culture of generosity. Above all, the Council approaches its work with joy, believing that happiness, engagement, and a strong sense of community are essential to its mission of serving the Orange County arts community.