Moore College in Phila. - Group Two

The Big Canvas - Oct. 5, 2008

The group was composed of seven art professionals and arts supporters.  There was one male in the group.  Most were city residents with one participant from Montgomery County and one from Bucks County.  Two participants were African American, the rest Caucasian

Each of the four approaches engaged participants. The fourth approach, fostering quality of community, received overwhelming support from the group. There were several action steps that participants felt would enhance the approach.  Participants agreed that artists’ colonies or concentrations could evolve around vacant spaces in communities.  The idea of a Space Bank, a central clearinghouse, would identify and log availability of vacant buildings that could be used as gallery, studio and performance space or a place for costume or prop storage. The NJ Council of the Arts is an example.

Because public awareness was a common theme, another type of clearinghouse that could serve as a “one-stop” for citizens was supported. This clearinghouse would include a comprehensive, up-to-date calendar of events were large and small venues could post events.  In addition, the clearinghouse could also serve as a volunteer bank where both folks that need volunteers and folks that want to volunteer can post.  Also, the need for regional and city-wide transportation to maximize access to a wider range of arts and culture venues for extended hours was another theme.  

Moderators: Ed Battle and Jean di Sabatino