Here we go:
Besides a slight parking snafu, the conference overall was wonderful: insightful, engaging, inspiring and yes, even fun (as can be proven by the fact that lunch got very "jazzy" and went over by 15 minutes).
The keynote speaker, was, as keynote speakers should be, lively, and definitely motivating. I took about 4 pages of notes, which I will not bore you with.
I will, however, leave you with his etymological definition of "culture" which I very much enjoyed ~ culture: "the medium in which you grow"
This definition fits in quite well with my reasons for starting this blog. My search for culture does not begin (or end) with wanting fancy frilly uppity artsy fartsy events, but the need for a "medium" in which I can grow. Culture, to me, is every little thing that can enliven my life, that can enrich even a little walk around the block, turn a grey day into a great day... etc etc
I then attended a session entitled "The Power of Public Art," which was truly fantastic and really broadened my knowledge about public art and how it affects our world.
The next session I went to was about advancing uses of technology in arts organizations. This was also interesting, but perhaps not geared towards my generation.
The reception, was, as receptions should be, a place for meeting new people, networking, eating good food and sipping on good drinks. The added bonus here was meeting delegates and senators. It is not every day that you get to talk about Caligula with a senator!
All in all, this conference was a reassurance: Virginia has an astounding number of arts organizations that are doing great things. Despite budget cuts deeply affecting the arts, there was a tremendous sense of hope as I sat next to so many people with similar goals. I was delighted to be a part of that today and hope I can spread the enthusiasm!
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