PROGRAMS:
Lecture & Discussion Series:
Appropriation in the Arts: Centering Authenticity
September 17, 2023; November 5, 2023; & January 21, 2024
This is a series of exploratory panel discussions on key topics surrounding authentic representation in contrast to appropriation of Indigenous art. Discussions will explore issues pertaining to the legal and ethical aspects of art production and collecting; the use of cultural symbols in Native and non-Native fine art; food sovereignty and the use of traditional food and crops in the hospitality industry. Topic experts from the Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA), Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University, indigenous experts, artists and gallery owners will discuss the blurred lines between art appreciation and appropriation to deepen the audience’s understanding of these issues. This series will be presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona and hosted at the Museum of Northern Arizona and Sedona Arts Center. Sponsored by AZ Humanities Council.
Creative Aging
Creative aging is “the practice of engaging older adults in participatory, professionally run arts programs with a focus on social engagement and skills mastery,” according to the non-profit organization Lifetime Arts, making it clear “it is not about making macaroni necklaces.” We are developing a roster of teaching artists who will teach Creative Aging techniques and then partner with or support them to go out in the community and run arts workshops for people ages 55+.
Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP 6)
AEP 6 is a program run by Americans for the Arts – one of our national service organizations. We have led this study on behalf of the City of Sedona which measures the economic impact of the nonprofit arts and culture sector here. Through surveying and data gathering, we will have a comprehensive measure of our entire sector’s impact sometime in late 2023. Surveys were collected throughout the past year. This is actually the 6th study that AFTA has conducted – so this is a longitudinal study. They typically run the study every five years but delayed it due to the pandemic.
Gallery 928
Based on the successful Gallery 37 program in Chicago – this program employs up to 10 high school students during the summer to work with a Master Artist to create a work of public art. In partnership with Yavapai College, the program will also teach the students resume building, presentation development and public speaking skills – in addition to basic art instruction and the specifics on designing, creating and installing a mural. Students receive a stipend and three college credits from Yavapai College.
