state arts action network

Karen Wells

Karen Wells is ARTS North Carolina’s executive director and registered lobbyist.

She previously served as performing arts director for the North Carolina Arts Council and for 11 years as executive director of the Arts Council of Wilson.

Karen has an M.F.A. in theater and a B.A. in education, and has worked extensively in academic, community, and professional theater before landing in arts administration and advocacy.

Karen was born and raised in rural Mississippi and is committed to the practice of the arts as a transformative power in economy, education, and civic life.