Panel Conversation with Sharon Louden, Mara Duvra, Tia-Simone Gardner, and Megan Vossler
Thursday, February 8, 2018, 7pm
Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center, Macalester College
Free and open to the public.
More information here
The Artist as Culture Producer: Living and Sustaining a Creative Life is a collection of essays by 40 visual artists. Edited by artist, educator, and advocate for artists Sharon Louden, the book is a platform for conversation that describes how artists extend their practices outside of their studios. All of the contributors have made impactful, artistic contributions as change agents in their communities. Their first-hand stories show the general public how contemporary artists of the 21st century use their out-of-the-box thinking not only as part of the creative economy, but more importantly, to enhance the well-being of others. Although there is a misconception that artists are invisible and hidden, the truth is that they work to produce measurable and innovative outcomes at the front lines of education, the non-profit sector, corporate environments and in our day-to-day lives. By sharing concrete examples, Sharon addresses how the myth of the singular "Artist Hero" is no longer relevant in today's society.
For our conversation at Macalester College, Sharon Louden will moderate a lively conversation between artists Tia-Simone Gardner, Mara Duvra and Macalester drawing professor Megan Vossler, talking about what it means to sustain a creative life today. Who are we as contemporary artists, and what do we want and need in order to thrive? The audience will be invited to reflect on these questions, and to participate in this wide-ranging conversation. The artists will not only field questions, but also make connections with those who attend. A book-signing will follow the conversation, with books available for purchase. We hope you'll join us for this special event!