Title: DirectorReport2008-08-07.doc

Programming:

On Monday July 14, 119 welcomed Mira Allen our new Marketing Director and CTC Vista volunteer.  Drop in and introduce yourself. You can reach her on the gallery phone 978 452 8138. We also have a Jericho Road consultant, Deby Baker. Deby, Mira and Mary Ann started meeting on Wednesday afternoons to develop a marketing plan. So far they have reviewed the Mission Statement and brainstormed a series of goals for the next year. They are looking at branding and coming up with a ‘tagline.’

On Tuesday July 15, the Lien/Rocha/Tobenfeld Winners of 3^rd Annual Juried Exhibit opened in the gallery. It is strong exhibit covering territory from hot to cool (Alyshia vs Dan & Emile), traditional to contemporary (Alyshia & Dan vs Emile).  It includes drawing, painting, sculpture, photography and video.

On Saturday July 26 Frank Casazza, +EF+, started painting the exterior of building. Frank proposed the mural during the ‘skateboard art’ exhibit. It was approved and he started the day of the reception for the Lien/Rocha/Tobenfeld exhibit. During its execution it drew a fair amount of attention from fans of +EF+.

The Creative Economy:

In case you haven’t read the SUN, Lowell is gearing up to take advantage of the new Creative Economy. The idea that Arts are an ‘economic engine’ has been around for awhile. Remember “Mills to Martinis,” the city’s public relations program designed to attract buyers for the ‘luxury artists lofts’ available in Lowell’s converted mills. The second big initiative was Western Avenue Studios that provides workspace for second-career artists on social security. There’s the Greater Merrimack Valley Committee on the Creative Economy that wants to project images on smokestacks and have a summer Arts & Crafts Fair along the banks of the river. Finally, there’s the Lowell Plan Committee on Artists Needs that’s developing curriculum on how to write a resume, prepare a portfolio, and apply for Schedule C tax deductions.

Kathleen Cammarata said that one local business man has come through the door into my studio. So what is the ‘creative economy?’ As far as I can tell its hype directed at attracting tourists.

Is there a market for art in Lowell? I asked Max, and she tells me that in 5 months the LDG has grossed $12K selling pieces that range from $150 - $300. The LDG takes 10% and projected over 12 months that’s a net of approx $3000+ (adding a little for holiday shopping). The fact that members pay the rent and upkeep means there are few expenses. So how do they manage to pay for that ad in Steppin’ Out?

How should 119 respond? I would focus on art as the means of maintaining a healthy, vibrant culture. Especially in Lowell, a city built by the waves of immigrants from a world-wide variety of cultures. I would focus on young artists as an investment in the future. And I would bring in recognized artists from outside to create work here in the community.

Education Program:

It seems like everyone’s programs are seeing fewer students. Registration in UML’s Art Department has fallen by 50%. The Decordova is cancelling classes.

I think we should give program a second chance. We need to do more marketing – an updated brochure and

Personally, I’m all for education but if we can’t attract students then what?

Finances:

I have called a meeting of the Finance Committee – Jason, Felicia, Kitty and me. We will work on a year-end statement for 2007, a projected budget for 2008, and a year-to-date report … hopefully for the September Board meeting.

Prepared by: Walter Wright, Executive Director