Advocating For The Arts At Sundance Resort in Utah
October 1, 2010 by Kate Davis
I was invited through YoungArts (NFAA) to be a part of the National Arts Policy Roundtable in Utah. It was an exciting experience that exposed me to the world of Arts Advocacy, and introduced me to powerful people that are trying to convince everyone- from the president, to the “Average Joe”, that arts and creativity are crucial in this society.
The roundtable took place at the beautiful Sundance Resort in Utah. Coming from NYC, I was eager to absorb the abundance of nature, beautiful weather, stunning views, and luxurious facilities. Though the meetings, meals, and conference were inside, the location was well planned, as the resort encouraged a relaxed and open mind!
I was nervous upon arrival, rubbing shoulders with high profile arts advocates from all over, who spoke with terrific ease. The first night’s gathering consisted of a panel and performance by the three YoungArts representatives. After we performed for the group I realized how important we were to the conference. Not only were we among the few active artists there- we represented musicians. It was amazing to hear everyone’s different perspectives and priorities regarding art advocacy and education, even more amazing to hear the technicalities and challenges I never knew existed. Sure, I’ve heard the whole “music makes you better at math” speech, but as an artist, that never felt relevant. The advocates see the connection between music and success in education. They just come at it from a “non-artists” point of view. It’s more about implementing intelligence than teaching kids to express themselves in an artistic way.
Throughout our day long roundtable discussion, I found myself becoming frustrated with the motives and words that are within the educational norm, but unfamiliar to a young artist. Arts Advocacy seemed to be a completely different world than the arts themselves. I was feeling pretty useless until I realized that what I could offer the roundtable had nothing to do with logistics and procedure. I then decided to speak up about my own personal experiences with music, education, and my perception as a young artist.
What if there were a group of caring artists that got together in a similar fashion? Perhaps they wouldn’t have the access to government personnel and elementary school test score results, but they would have creative ideas for arts in schools, communities, and even families. Sure, they wouldn’t be able to hit all the marks politically, but there would be an artistic understanding, and consistent language.
My experience during the National Arts Policy Roundtable was terrific. I had never realized how important arts advocacy was, or it’s personal impact on me. I plan to keep involved, and encourage anyone passionate about the arts to do the same. Artists play a very important role, to me, being the best advocates. Role models. We all have different gifts, and I am still learning about where I fit in. Clearly, our trio of YoungArts representatives are not the policy makers for kid’s education, but we know what music and arts means to us, and hope some of our passion can help influence more people to advocate for arts in all the places they are challenged.
Isn't it great these things happen? P.S.: I like how you put the "music helps math" speech in there as a stereotype.