An Arts Commission was created in 1955 to advise City government regarding the artistic and cultural development of the City. The Commission had ten members (later increased by ordinance to fifteen), who represented the painting, sculpture, music, literature, architecture, and landscape architecture communities; members could be nominated for appointment to the Commission by their organizations.

The Commission was reorganized in 1957 as the Municipal Art Commission by Ordinance 86692. Its primary mission remained the same, and the composition of the Commission changed only slightly. Its fifteen members included two from each of the abovementioned categories as well as three "lay" members. The Commission's advisory responsibility was extended to recommendations regarding the purchase of artworks by the City or the donation of artworks to the City; each painting, sculpture, or fountain and its location had to be approved by the Commission, which also made recommendations on the removal of artworks. The Commission was also responsible for making recommendations on the design of new physical structures to be constructed in the City and could even advise private property owners at no charge.

In 1961, the Commission's responsibilities were broadened to include historic preservation recommendations. In 1971, the Municipal Art Commission, which was "no longer actively pursuing its responsibilities," was abolished by Ordinance 99982 and replaced by the Seattle Arts Commission. The new Commission acted in the same advisory capacity and had fifteen mayor-appointed members; its actions served "to promote and encourage public programs to further the development and public awareness of and interest in the fine and performing arts."