Maryland is on the lips of the nation?s arts leaders for more than one reason. Not only is Maryland the first state to create arts and entertainment districts, such as Station North where developers and artists receive tax incentives, but the state will host the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies? annual conference.
More than 400 movers and shakers from all 50 states are expected to attend the National Assembly?s event at Baltimore?s Waterfront Marriott net week.
The National Assembly helps private and public arts organizations ensure every neighborhood in the U.S. has access to visual and performing arts.
Conference discussions and workshops will focus on issues such as funders? strategies, the latest technologies, arts in healthcare and expanding state art councils? services, said Theresa Colvin, executive director of the Maryland State Arts Council. Attendees will also discuss Maryland State Arts Council?s innovative Cultural Data Project.
Colvin said she?s looking forward to showing off the American Visionary Museum, “one of only two museums like it in the country.”
The conference will showcase Charm City?s arts venues during private events such as receptions andexhibit tours at the American Visionary Museum and Baltimore Museum of Art.
“As a Maryland artist, I?m extremely proud and excited to have such a prestigious group like this to come to Baltimore,” said Kevin ?Kal? Kallaugher, veteran political cartoonist and artist-in-residence at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
During the conference, Kallaugher will teach attendees how to draw a caricature of George Bush and present an interactive 3D animation. Other presenters include Nikki Giovanni, world-renowned poet and Liz Lerman, founding artistic director of Liz Lerman Dance Exchange.
Kallaugher said he, like state art councils, deals with the political realities of our time and aims to engage, entertain and educate people.
FAST FACTS
» In 2006, the Maryland arts industry contributed more than $1 billion to the state?s economy and provided 13,762 jobs to Maryland residents, according to the Maryland State Arts Council.
