ARTS in the World
April was a month of inspiration, learning, and connection for some of our ARTS team members as we made a presence at two significant conferences dedicated to advancing community arts education and advocating for arts and culture. Here's a glimpse into their experiences and insights gained from these enriching events:
The National Guild for Community Arts Education Conference
Lucy with the team from Clare Rose Foundation
Some members from the ARTS team, Lucy Eagleson (ARTS Interim Executive Director), Olimpia Vázquez Ojeda (ARTS Programs Manager), and Sheena Rae Dowling (Community ARTS Teaching Artist), had the privilege of attending The National Guild for Community Arts Education Conference held in Washington D.C. from April 9th to 12th, 2024. We are grateful to have had the support of The Clare Rose Foundation to allow our team to attend this inspiring event.
For Lucy, the conference was a space to explore and connect with Creative Youth Development and Arts + Culture thought leaders, teaching artists, and arts advocates, we had the opportunity to connect with ourselves and others who are equally passionate about youth and creative expression. “It was awe-inspiring to celebrate and uplift the collective impact of arts organizations from near + far.”
Olimpia felt very honored to have had the opportunity to represent ARTS at the annual National Guild for Community Arts Education Conference. She was able to learn about common challenges as well as success stories directly from teaching artists, program administrators, funders, and directors who have been doing meaningful work in this field for years all throughout the nation. “It was inspiring to engage with a network of professionals who are committed to young people’s creative ideas and dreams and who understand the transformative power of art!”
“I was thrilled to hear organizations from all over the US talking about art through the lens of healing and incorporating somatic practices into the arts. It was really powerful to see so many people working towards the same goals.”
Sheena Rae Dowling
(Community ARTS Teaching Artist)
Sheena said about her time at the conference, “I was thrilled to hear organizations from all over the US talking about art through the lens of healing and incorporating somatic practices into the arts. It was really powerful to see so many people working towards the same goals.”
Jose Lopez at the California State Capitol
California for the Arts: Arts and Culture Summit and Advocacy Day
Jose represented ARTS at the California for the Arts: Arts and Culture Summit and Advocacy Day in Sacramento on April 16th and 17th. Thanks to San Diego Art Matters, Jose had the opportunity to engage with non-profit partners and delve into discussions about advocacy for arts and culture at a systemic level.
The summit provided valuable insights into the intricacies of legislative support for the arts. Jose gained a deeper understanding of the importance of advocating for policies that bolster the work of artists, cultural practitioners, and community-based organizations, ultimately contributing to the advancement of communities across California.
Takeaways
April was not just another month for the ARTS team; it was a month of growth, connection, and empowerment. From Washington D.C. to Sacramento, each conference offered a unique perspective and fostered meaningful conversations that will undoubtedly shape our future endeavors. As our team returns to work with renewed excitement and inspiration, the impact of these experiences will shape our efforts to advocate for the transformative power of the arts in communities far and wide.
