Secrets of an Arts Administrator

Changes

Dear NCLAC Members, It is with mixed feelings that I write this letter today. I am writing to announce that I will be stepping down as the Executive Director of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council to take a new position in Bossier City.

I wanted to take a few moments to thank the communities in which NCLAC serves. It has been a joy to work here and I have learned so much. Most importantly I have learned that our "home" has a deep passion and support for the arts. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone and say how much I will miss NCLAC.

I am excited for the future of NCLAC, our very own Educational Coordinator, Jessica Slaughter, has agreed to step up and serve as NCLAC's new Executive Director. Her passion and commitment to the arts will lead NCLAC into new and exciting possibilities.

If you have any questions about NCLAC or their programming please feel free to contact Jessica at our offices in the Dixie Center for the Arts, by phone at 255-1450, or via email at nclac5@gmail.com

Leigh Anne Chambers Past Executive Director

Missed Opportunities

This morning I am reminded of missed opportunities.  What an odd expression...  How does one "miss" an opportunity? In the past year I've blogged a lot about various subject matters regarding the "business" of art.  Most of the time I'm nervous that I am sounding preachy or pushy.  But today I realized that if I do, its only because I want to see the artists in my region succeed.  I fill strongly that they are TALENTED and I want the rest of our community, region, country, and world to see what I see.

I only write about my observations.  Things I hear, read, or witness first hand.  I've discovered a lot in the past three years but most importantly I've witnessed that the biggest stumbling block an artist faces is themselves.  These blocks come in many forms and often artist reach them and then stop.

Please don't.  Please keep going and trying.  You are talented and a hard worker.  Don't believe that what you do is not essential to our community and way of life.  The North Central Louisiana Arts Council is here for our community and you are a member of our community.  Let us know what you need or would like to see.  Let us know how we can help you grow as an artist.

Even if it's just being pushy on our blog.

Arts Funding and You

I had to take a break from the traditional Blog schedule to share some thoughts.  I like many of you "share" on facebook the news about arts funding and like many of you I write emails to my elected officials about the importance of arts funding.  For the longest time I had very little knowledge about what these "funds" actually were and why they were important to me and my community.  But over the past three years I have become extremely familiar to what this actually means. We are not in a good place.

That is the truth.  The truth that is difficult for an optimist like myself to admit.

I love the arts, no, I have a deep and profound respect for the arts.  I live in awe of its ability to impact, change, and develop my community.  I believe that it is important to the five parishes that NCLAC serves of Jackson, Bienville, Claiborne, Union, and Lincoln.  I have seen the importance of the arts in a community but more importantly I have witnessed what the lack of cultural events can do to our home.

I could quote sources citing the importance of arts funding but I know through conversations with my community that I don't need to.  You have seen the positive results from arts programming and know all to well the negative effects it's growing disappearance has on our home.

In the past three years NCLAC has seen increased support from individuals and corporate donors, we have done a close evaluation of our programming and have been extremely fiscally conservative and responsible with our budget.  However, non profits depend on a diverse stream of support and loosing funds from state-wide grants will make a huge dent in our ability to adequately serve our community.

This leaves me questioning this morning "what will we do"?

Leigh Anne Chambers, Executive Director, NCLAC

Call for Entry Friday (Jobs for recent graduates!!!!)

In honor of college students graduating in the next few months we will take a break and instead post a few career opportunities in the state of Louisiana.  Remember students the early bird gets the worm!!

Job Opening: Dance Teacher -Full Time Position, K-5 Lusher Charter School

Dance Artist Teacher -Full Time Position, K-5 Lusher Charter School,

Requirements: BFA Dance, MFA or MA in Dance Education Minimum 3 years teaching experience in K-5 dance program Performance and choreographic background experience with children’s dance companies. Knowledge and background in Arts Integration across the curriculum. Professional experience performing, choreographing and collaborating with musicians and other artists.

For more information, please email Kathy kathy_dejean@lusherschool.org

Part-Time Manager, 3 Ring Circus Arts & Education Center

3 Ring Circus Arts & Education Center is a multi-use Arts, Music, Education and Special Event venue. The organization presents Visual Arts, Film, and Music from emerging artists at the Big Top, a family friendly venue in the Central City neighborhood of New Orleans. Also, the organization is a leader in presenting Arts Education programs for Children and Youth.

The Manager is responsible for the planning and implementation of established 3 Ring Circus Art Programs including Friday Night Music Camp, Summer Arts Camp, and the Peep Show Film Program. Also the Manager is responsible for creating new programs and special events (rentals, benefits etc.) that fulfill the 3 Ring Circus mission of promoting emerging art and artist.
The Manager is also responsible for the Promotions and Public Relations, Fundraising, and Financial Management for 3 Ring Circus Arts & Education Center. The Manager answers to and works in partnership with the Board of Directors to support the artistic mission of the 3 Ring Circus Arts & Education Center.
Skills Required: The Manager position requires general knowledge in Arts Administration, the Creative process and the role that Art plays in the Community. General skills required in Arts Administration, Non-profit operations, Business and/or Education. Interest and knowledge of the emerging Art & Music segment with experience in developing Art and Music careers. Knowledge of Arts Education programs that target children, youth and adults. General skills related to marketing, public relations, fundraising, arts related community outreach, and organizational development are essential components of this position. Manager duties include:1. Develop and Manage creative self-sustaining Art Education Programs. 2. Develop and Manage the Special Event (Rentals, Private events) Revenue stream of 3 Ring Circus Arts & Education Center. 3. Develop and Manage the Programmatic Calendar of Events (Live Music, Theatre, Community events etc.) 4. Develop a Fundraising and sponsorship strategy from local, regional and national government, corporate, foundation, and individuals. Cultivate prospects and build repeat annual donor relationships. 5. Assist with the Curating of the monthly Arts shows. 6. Report to the Executive Committee on activities, programs, and issues.
Gallery Hours – 2:00pm-6:00pm Thurs. Fri. Sat.
Salary: Part-Time Salaried Position: 25 hours a week Monthly Stipend pending experience 10% of Special Event Sales

Job Opening: Creative Arts Teacher

 

Crescent City Schools seeks Creative Art Teacher. The Creative Arts Teacher is responsible for:

• Promote the mission and values of the school through the teaching of dance, music, theater, or art • Long-term unit planning and daily lesson planning • Teaching guided reading and/or independent reading • Collaborating with grade level and subject level teams and student support staff • Participating in daily, weekly, and quarterly meetings about student achievement • Integrating weekly feedback and goal-setting into lesson delivery • Maintaining a classroom culture conducive to raising student achievement • Participating in the life of the school, including student activities and events

Position Requirements:

• Believe in the mission and values of Crescent City Schools • Demonstrate past success working with students in urban settings • Have a BA or BS degree • Possess LA Teacher Certification or be willing to obtain one

To apply, please visit  www.crescentcityschools.org

Crescent City Schools is also looking for:

Elementary/Middle School Teacher Physical Education Teacher Special Education Teacher

Education Intern - Assistant Summer Camp Director

Louisiana Children's Museum

EDUCATION / TRAINING PROJECT / PROGRAM MANAGEMENT INTERNSHIP

New Orleans, Warehouse District

Posted: April 13, 2012

Position Title: Education Intern – Assistant Camp Director (must be 18)

Hours: *Full–time, 9am – 5:30pm Mon. – Fri. *(July 4th off, no camp, museum closed)

Responsibilities: *Assist lead Camp Director with daily running of summer camp (5-8yr. olds) *Lead the After-Care program beginning each day at 3:00pm *Effectively and professionally communicate with parents and families *Handle and account for Before/After Care payments *Motivate children to learn through interactive activities

  • Assist with program planning and execution
  • Know pertinent facts about operation of LCM

*Other duties as assigned

Qualifications: *Highly dependable and punctual

  • High level of energy and enthusiasm
  • Ability to take initiative

*Excellent communication and customer service skills

  • Ability to present information to large groups

*Availability to work the hours listed *Produce quality work in a close team environment

  • Working towards a degree in Education, Early Childhood, Communications, Fine Arts or related field

Salary/Wage: Unpaid internship/Credit hours may apply

Applicants must submit current resume and cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position. These materials should be emailed to:

sclark@lcm.org Attn. Camp Director, Sarah Clark Louisiana Children’s Museum 420 Julia Street, New Orleans, LA 70130.

Assistant Professor - Theatre Technical Director

University Of New Orleans

EDUCATION / TRAINING FULL-TIME

UNO lakefront

Posted: April 10, 2012

UNO Invites applications for the following position in the Department of Film, Theatre, and Communication Arts

Assistant Professor Technical Director

Please visit: http://hrm.uno.edu/employment

For a complete position announcement, qualifications, and application instructions. Position # 983

UNO is an AA/EOE

Assistant Professor In Film Production

University Of New Orleans

EDUCATION / TRAINING FILM / TV / VIDEO FULL-TIME

UNO Lakefront New Orleans

Posted: April 09, 2012

Invites applications for the following position in the Department of Film, Theatre, and Communication Arts

Assistant Professor Film Production

Please visit: http://hrm.uno.edu/employment

For a complete position announcement, qualifications, and application instructions. Position # 1185

UNO is an AA/EOE

Director Of Marketing & Promotions

John Robert Powers Performing Arts Academy

MARKETING / PRODUCT FULL-TIME

Metairie

Posted: April 02, 2012

Director of Marketing & Promotions

John Robert Powers Performing Arts Academy is currently hiring a new Director of Marketing & Promotions. Our school offers professional training in Acting, Modeling and Singing and requires a qualified employee to connect our services with the thriving talent here in New Orleans. Please carefully review the requirements and qualifications before applying, and follow the applications instructions precisely. This is a full-time salaried position which also includes an opportunity to bonus.

Requirements: – B.A. in Marketing, Communications, PR, or related field – 2-5 years of Marketing Experience – Familiar with promotional events/ event planning – Strong communication skills – Outgoing and enthusiastic – Proficient in online marketing strategies (including Google, Facebook, Twitter, Constant Contact, & Blogging) – Computer literacy, including Microsoft Word, Publisher & Excel. – Must be available Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. for the first month+ of employment. (Hours after the first month may be negotiable.) – Must be able to work at least 2 weekends per month. – This job requires travel in/around the Metairie area, as well as the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications – Experience with Hootsuite – Familiarity with Google Ad Words and CPC campaigns – Interest/Involvement with the Entertainment Industry

To apply:

Please email a formal cover letter and recent resume to nolajrp@gmail.com with "Director of Marketing & Promotions" in the subject line. It is also encouraged to view our facebook, twitter and website before applying. www.jrpneworleans.com . No phone calls, please. Applications without a cover letter will NOT be considered.

Posted: March 28, 2012

The John Robert Powers Performing Arts Academy in Metairie is looking to add a new sales manager to our team. Please carefully review the requirements below, as well as the application instructions. Only serious applicants need apply. This is a well compensated position with excellent growth potential for the right person.

Requirements: – Sales experience with non-tangible sales (gym memberships, weight loss, etc.) – Strong communication skills, particularly on the phone. – Fashion forward with interest/involvement with the entertainment industry. – Must be able to work Monday through Thursday 11:00 to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 to 4:00 p.m. – The candidate must be punctual, responsible, and professional. – The ideal applicant with will be self-motivated, able to work in a team setting, and comfortable in a leadership role.

Please email a cover letter and resume to nolajrp@gmail.com, and write "Talent Executive Applicant" in the subject line. Please indicate in your cover letter your relevant experience, any characteristics that make you right for this position, as well as your desired salary. Resumes without a cover letter will not be considered.

Posted: March 08, 2012

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

Full-service Artist Management Company dedicated to providing professional representation to musical artists in the New Orleans & Gulf Coast region

INTERNSHIP JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Web research along with handling online presence for artists (artist websites, event calendar listings, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.), as well as helping to establish better practices and advanced social networking methods

- Scheduling meetings with artists and industry professionals

- Handling deliveries, clerical errands and postal mailings

- Managing artist merchandise — research, placing orders, and coordination at local shows by those artists (must be able to be available to attend artist events, most of which are at nighttime)

- Artist marketing and promotions

- Digital music sales

- Songwriter/licensing submissions and tracking

- Development of artist “street teams” locally, regionally, and nationally

- Assisting artist management with various other relevant tasks for artists “on the fly”, as requested by artist management.

INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS:

- Some experience in music or entertainment industry preferred but not mandatory. Experience in marketing, promotions, graphic design, or PR is a plus.

- If current student, preferred if working towards bachelor’s or master’s degree in entertainment business

- Intern must be dependable, have great people skills and phone manners, an outgoing personality and be able to function well in both a corporate business setting and in social settings/high profile celebrity events, etc.

- Must have a can-do attitude, be a self-starter and able to start ASAP.

- Must have strong writing and communication skills, be detail-oriented and organized

- Must have own transportation to/from events (either own a car or have access to one on regular basis)

- MUST have laptop computer with wireless access and be tech savvy — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, iTunes, mass emails, etc.

OTHER INTERNSHIP DETAILS:

- Unpaid, but will receive a variety of benefits such as complimentary tickets to shows and other music industry bonuses

- Students may be able to receive college credit for the internship work, depending on the school's program rules.

Please submit a resume & cover letter. Please submit all application materials to mundomgmt@gmail.com

Production Design Intern

RE:BE Design

CREATIVE / DESIGN INTERNSHIP

RE:BE Design

Posted: February 17, 2012

RE:BE Design is offering exciting internship opportunities for individuals with interest and background in set design, interior design, architecture, graphic design, temporary installations, and construction.

Interns have the opportunity to work with an award – winning company (RE:BE Design) under the supervision of Executive Design Producer, Stefan Beese, while also earning school credits when applicable. We are seeking organized and creative individuals who wish to refine their skills by assisting with current and upcoming projects. Work will primarily include research, drafting, rendering, and basic office management tasks.

Requirements:

Applicants should have experience in Architecture, Set/Production Design, Interior Design, Temporary Installations, or other related design areas. Proficiency with design software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, CAD, Rhino, Sketch Up, and other related software is needed. Experience in construction or set building is a plus, but not necessary. Applicants should also have access to a car and computer with design software.

***Send resumes, portfolios, and schedule/availability directly to: jensen@rebe-design.com

Jensen Killen Production Design Assistant jensen@rebe-design.com www.rebe-design.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Job Description

Mission: The Bossier Arts Council is a non-profit 501(c) 3 arts organization, founded in 1980, and serving as the official arts agency for the City of Bossier City, committed to promoting, supporting and providing cultural events and programming in order to enhance the quality of life and develop a cultural identity for Bossier Parish.

Position AvailableThe Bossier Arts Council seeks a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as Executive Director to advance the mission, oversee the operations, implement Board policies, and forward the agenda of the organization. The Bossier Arts Council provides innovative programs and services to artists, arts organizations, educators, youth and the general public.

Experience/Qualifications: College graduate from accredited university/institution with at least 3-5 years management experience, preferably in a nonprofit organization, with significant experience in the Arts or a related area; prior experience as a President, Executive Director, or Management Position is preferred.

The ideal candidate will possess:

· BS or BA degree in a relevant field is a plus.

· Knowledge of the Northwest Louisiana area Arts community

· Proven record as a successful fundraiser

· Outstanding written, oral and interpersonal communication skills

· Strong planning, organizational and analytical skills

· Ability to positively manage, motivate and develop staff, board and volunteers

· Demonstrated visionary and innovative thinking skills

· Examples of ability to work collaboratively with all sectors of the community

A stated and demonstrated philosophy of the desired relationship between the Board of Directors, Executive Director, and staff

Responsibilities: The Executive Director serves as the chief operating officer of the Bossier Arts Council, working closely with and reporting to, the President of the Board and the Board of Directors. The Executive Director directs and administers all programs, operations and policies in addition to supervising the professional staff.

Primary areas of responsibility include:

  • Strategic Planning – helps develop and implement a strategic plan and annual action plans in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
  • Program Development and Management – develops, implements and supervises programs and servicesthat are consistent with the organization’s mission and that meet the needs of constituents.
  • Fund Development/Grant Oversight and Fiscal Management – together with the Board, develops and manages the fundraising and financial strategies of the organization; develops an annual budget for approval by the Board; oversees the management of all funds, consistent with the organization’s accounting system
  • Staff Leadership and Management – motivates and develops the professional management team; hires, supervises and evaluates staff; coordinates work with the Board’s committees, volunteers and partner organizations.
  • Community Relations – develops effective working relationships within the community (both within the arts community and elsewhere) to ensure that the arts are represented in the community-at-large and for the constituency that the Bossier Arts Council serves
  • Advocacy – serves as the chief spokesperson for the Arts Council in the community; articulates and communicates the value of the arts in improving our quality of life, and promotes community support of the arts and the Arts Council
  • Conducts all business at the highest standard of integrity ensuring that all activities are legal and ethical.

Compensation: This is a full time, salary exempt position.  The salary is $30,000 to $40,000 commensurate with experience.  Other benefits include two-week annual vacation and sick leave.

Starting Date: Immediate

Procedure for Applying: Qualified candidates should e-mail a current resume, together with a cover letter indicating interest in the position to bossierarts@bossierarts.org. Deadline for applications is April 30, 2012.

The Bossier Arts Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Job Description

The Community Development Coordinator (CDC) provides technical assistance to community arts organizations, representatives of culturally diverse communities and rural communities in the region served. The CDC assists both established and new agencies to provide better access to Louisiana's arts resources. This is a full-time position, which reports directly to the Executive Director. The CDC shall work out of the Bossier Arts Council office and be accessible to the public on a daily basis.

The CDC is responsible for the following:

  • Identify and provide technical assistance to culturally diverse nonprofits, arts organizations, local governments, artists, schools, and school systems in Louisiana.
  • Coordinate the regional arts grants program for the RDA and LRA.
  • Travel to all parishes within the region to provide technical assistance.
  • Conduct grants workshops in the region providing information about programs available, types of eligible projects, and assistance in completing the applications.
  • Assist both established and new agencies with planning and programming.
  • Plan and coordinate regular communication among constituents who apply to the DAF program in your region.
  • Organize and conduct panel meetings to review applications.
  • Serve as a liaison to the Community Development Director at the Louisiana Division of the Arts.
  • Observe grantees with regular site visits.
  • Participate in LDOA conference calls and meetings of the CDC/CDD from each region.
  • Provide required electronic and hard-copy reports on the DAF program as contracted by the LDOA. (LDOA will provide a reporting schedule annually for the program)
  • Maintain organized records of grant applications, contracts and final reports from applicants.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in one of the arts disciplines, arts administration, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be substituted.
  • Demonstrated skills in meeting planning and a basic knowledge of state, federal, and local arts programming.
  • The ability to communicate verbally and in writing and to provide grants writing and technical assistance to constituents.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Access and basic knowledge of internet browsers, online applications and email. Knowledge of basic accounting practices, and non-profit management and structure are helpful in this position.
  • Creative individual who is able to work within the confines of set policy.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your resume and the reason you would like to become apart of our team to bossierarts@bossierarts.org.

SRAC is looking to hire a TECHNICAL DIRECTOR to coordinate and oversee all aspects and logistics of a production including creation, construction, breakdown, and storage of Shreveport Regional Arts Council productions.  Responsibilities include production planning, construction, coordination and supervision for artspace Exhibits and SRAC Special Events such as ArtBreak and Christmas in the Sky.  For complete listing of position click here!

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Administrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Lesson: You can help shape policy on Arts Funding

Recently I had the pleasure of hearing Christie Weeks, current Chairman of the Board for Louisiana Citizens for Arts, speak about funding for the arts.  I was deeply impressed by her knowledge and dedication to arts advocacy.  I was fortunate to catch up with Christie to ask a few questions about public funding and how it impact our regional artists and arts supporters.

NCLAC:  How does funding at the state level impact individual artists?

WEEKS:  Funding at the state level impacts individual artists in multiple ways. Including (but not limited to):

  • Helping artists develop marketing and “the business of art” skills through regional arts agencies
  • Funding supports festivals and arts markets, thus providing venues for visual artists to sell their work and performers to develop audiences
  • DAF--Decentralized Arts Fund Grants (available to every Louisiana parish) provide employment opportunities for Louisiana artists
  • Opportunities for artists to convene and discuss issues that are important to them (e.g., monthly or bi-monthly meetings help by many regional arts agencies and quarterly meetings of the Louisiana Partnership for the Arts)

NCLAC:  What role do you think the arts play in our current culture?

WEEKS:  The arts are central to Louisiana’s culture and identity and a crucial component of our economy.  A favorite equation is Arts + Culture = Tourism.  Globally, when people hear the word Louisiana, they think of great music, unique culinary adventures, and a culture that is like no other.

NCLAC: What inspires you to spend your time advocating for the arts?

WEEKS:  I have read the extensive research about how critical arts education is to overall academic achievement and critical thinking.  If we want to be globally competitive, we have to offer a comprehensive environment conducive to business, including a creative, entrepreneurial workforce and strong communities.  When you look at those cities that have “come back” (Chattanooga, for example) the arts are a core component of the recovery plan.  Nearer to home, the arts have been central to the continued revitalization of downtown Shreveport.

Also, although all my children’s careers are engineering/science oriented, they also value the arts for what it brings to their lives.  Providing a comprehensive educational and life experience for their children is important to them.  So, if I want to entertain any hope that they will return to Louisiana….

NCLAC: Why is it important for artists and arts lovers to advocate on a political level?

WEEKS: You and I know the part that the arts play in our society, but many policymakers and funders don’t understand that centrality.  Rather, they view the arts as extra, as expendable.  We ALL must work to educate our citizenry and remind them that successful artists (who pay income and property taxes!!) must be developed—they don’t drop from the sky.  Arts experiences and education are important for all—we never know where the next Louis Armstrong or William Joyce or Wynton Marsalis will come from.

NCLAC: Do you have a personal story about the positive impact you have seen the arts make?

WEEKS:  There are many.  The saying is all politics is local.  There may be truth in saying the impact of all arts is local.  Several years ago, our Jackson Parish Museum & Fine Arts Association received a DAF grant to assist in the painting of a mural commemorating Governor Jimmie Davis, who made “You are My Sunshine” one of the most popular songs in the world.  We designed the project in a way that would allow people attending the annual Sunshine Festival to paint a portion of the mural.  Watching everyone come together and participate in that creative endeavor was a real joy.  Now, many of us can say, “I helped paint this mural!”  That is a single example of how community can gather around the arts.

NCLAC:  Why is it important for artists and arts lovers to contribute financially to this cause?

WEEKS:  Louisiana Citizens for the Arts is the only statewide organization that advocates for arts funding for every parish in Louisiana.  It is a completely volunteer run organization consisting of artists, arts organizations and citizens who value Louisiana’s unique culture and seek a wide variety of arts and culture experiences—music and art festivals to ballet to theater to children’s art camps to film and more.  We engage a well respected lobbyist to keep us abreast of the budget process and climate in Baton Rouge.  His constant presence at the capitol, in committee meetings, and one on ones with policymakers allows us to know when and how to communicate most effectively with our representatives and senators.  Without membership contributions to LCA we cannot have that real time information and take advantage of small windows of opportunity to convince legislators of the importance of arts funding for all our parishes.

We in rural parishes, especially, depend on public arts funds (DAF) to provide seed money for arts programming.  We then leverage those monies, through additional contributions and in-kind donations, into quality arts experiences for all ages!

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

We will take a break from the usual format this week and instead share information about an exciting upcoming opportunity for our Regional Artists. On Tuesday, April 3rd from 10am-1pm a representative from the Shreveport Regional Arts Council (SRAC) will be at the Lincoln Parish Library to assist Artists with registering on the NW LA Artists Directory. This Directory is a project of the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and is designed to recognize artists from all art disciplines and media in Northwest Louisiana.  This is an amazing opportunity for Artists of all disciplines (literary, performing, and visual) to join an interactive listing viewed by presenting organizations looking to book shows, exhibition, performance, or readings.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Participation in the Directory is free of charge.
  • The artist mus have established residence in and mush have lived at least 12 months in one of the 10 parishes in North Louisiana (Region 7).  Parishes include: Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, Desoto, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, and Webster.
  • The artist must comple the Northwest Louisiana Juried Artists' Directory application: Including the submission of an Artist Statement, Resume, and Samples of Work in accordance to submission requirements in the Directory Application.
  • All artist must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Artist must agree to terms of service to be accepted to the Northwest Louisiana Artists' Directory
Benefits
Acceptance to the Northwest Louisiana Artists' Directory provides the following benefits:
  1. Promotion on the Shreveport Regional Arts Council Directory
  2. Invitations to all arts events that the Shreveport Regional Arts Council produces.
  3. Up to date information on grants, funding and opportunities.
  4. Monthly online newsletter promoting opportunities for artists in the Region.
  5. The opportunity to be accepted to the Northwest Juried Artists' Roster

Artists interested in participating should come to the Lincoln Parish Library (910 N. Trenton, Ruston, LA) prepared to register online.  The SRAC representative will have a laptop on location for artists to  use and will assist with loading all required materials.  Artist are asked to bring a flash drive with the required information.  Below you will find the requirements for each discipline:

  • Visual Artists- Artist Statement, Bio, and Resume. 10 digital images of your work.
  • Writers- Artist Statement, Bio, and Resume. Up to 30 pages of written material.
  • Performers (Musicians, Dancers, Actors, Movement)- Artist Statement, Bio, and Resume. Up to 10 minutes of video. 3 video sample 3 min in length

If you have more questions please feel free to contact Kathryn Usher the Directory Coordinator at artists@shrevearts.org.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Administrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Lesson: Don't pass up an opportunity (or at least think really hard before you do)

So many times I have heard artist say something similiar to the following "I wish I wouldn't have missed out on that..."  Whether it was an exhibition, audition, or job we sometimes find ourselves loosing sight of our goals.  While I don't think it's healthy to spend too much time thinking about our mistakes, I do think it's important to learn from them.  Here are some common reasons why we don't pursue opportunities and why you shouldn't fall victim to them:

  • Rejection: This is inherent to the artistic process.  You will sometime fail, you will sometimes be rejected, and you will sometimes be heartbroken.  It's okay.  (No really, it is). Our artwork (be it performing, visual, or written) is personal, so it's easy to take rejection personally.  I have no simple solution to handling it except to say that it's part of the game.  Don't let it stop you from making steps to reaching your artistic and career goals.
  • Ego: So many times I hear artists saying that they were "too good" for an opportunity only to hear them later regret their comments.  The artistic world is a competitive one and those who take advantage of what is offered fair better.  Be discerning when it comes to passing up an opportunity.  Consider all the factors and never look at something based solely on face value.
  • Time/Effort: Being an artist does take time and work.  I think artists don't get enough credit for how hard they work.  I see it every day, and every time I present a new opportunity I know that it just means more of your time.  Consider it as time well spent (even if it results in rejection).  Your passion for creation will be wasted if it's not shared.  Opportunities for exposure come only so often so it's worth the amount of time it takes.  Creation is only half the climb.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Administrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Lesson: "Say Yes to the Dress" has all life's guidelines

No, this is not a blog posts about weddings or television.  For those of you who don't know "Say Yes to the Dress" is a TLC show about wedding dresses and the famous bridal boutique Kleinfeld in Manhattan.  It shadows brides on the search for the perfect wedding dress.  Like most netflix junkies I have spent way too much time watching episodes of my favorite shows in rapid succession.  Including "Say Yes to the Dress".

Recently it dawned on me that it has the answers to most problems I encounter.

The fashion experts and bridal consultants on the show outline 4 rules a bride should never break when shopping for "the dress" and why:

  • Do not bring an entourage to your wedding dress shopping.  Entourages have a tendency to shout their opinions over your desires.
  • Never walk into bridal boutique without having some idea of what you are looking for because it will quickly become overwhelming.
  • Never try on a dress outside your budget.  You could fall in love with something you can't afford.
  • And lastly, once you find the "perfect one" stop looking.

After hearing these rules repeated in show after show and seeing the disastrous outcomes of not heeding said advice, I began to see similar experiences with the artists and professionals I work with everyday.  Below I've covered the same rules and adapted them for artistic readers:

  • Sometimes you have to ignore the "peanut gallery" Remember that you can't please everyone.  Although we strive as artists to impact those viewing our work it is not always going to make everyone happy.  When you pursue artistic goals you have to remember your direction.
  • Which brings me to my next point...Have some direction.  Most artists have wonderful plans for producing their work and dreams of where they would like to perform/exhibit/publish those said works, but loose the step in between.  Make a plan of how you will get from point "A" to point "C".
  • Work within your financial means. I am not saying you should "settle" and not aim for the moon.  What I am saying, is make sure that what you hope to produce is within your means financially, and if it's not have a plan about how you will get the funds.
  • And lastly, know when you are done.  Overworking has destroyed many projects.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Administrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Lesson: It takes money (and a lot of it)

Like most young and eager arts administrators I believed that passion alone could carry a project through any problem.  Three  years into my job I've begun to realize it takes something else, a little green.  (Actually that is a lie, it takes a great deal of green to carry out even the smallest projects.)

While I spent the first two years dreading the discussion of funds (mainly how to get them), I've begun to realize a very encouraging truth, people can be generous.  In fact most individuals are full of kindness and  a giving spirit.  I have learned that while passion may not be enough to carry any project, it can be a good beginning.  If you believe in what you are doing (and I mean truly believe that it's important to the world around you) the green will come.

I witnessed this first hand again at our Annual Silent Auction on Saturday at the Ruston Civic Symphony Society's Mardi Gras Ball.  NCLAC surpassed it's fundraising goal and it is all because of our donor's and the bidders.  Without a community that supports our projects we would not be able to achieve our goals.  We've spent the last week thanking those generous individuals but I wanted to say a personal "thank you".

Thank you, I really believe that NCLAC can and does make our home a better place to live.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Administrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Last weeks post was about the importance of writing for artists and arts professionals and this weeks post is about an equally challenging life skill MATH.  I've attached some links to sites that may help the average artist with math skills required for daily interaction.

PERCENT CALCULATOR (Perfect for figuring out commissions or sales tax)

http://www.onlineconversion.com/percentcalc.htm

FEET & INCHES CALCULATOR

http://www.cleavebooks.co.uk/scol/ccftins.htm

CURRENCY CALCULATOR

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator.html

Secrets of an Arts Adminstrator

“Secrets of an Arts Adminstrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Topic Four:  Writing is not the enemy

It's not, and neither is math.  They are merely life skills that any individual (no matter how right-brained you might be) needs to function in a professional setting.  Every arts professional will have to do a fair amount of both writing and math (we will talk about math next week).  It's best to approach writing with a positive attitude, good friends, and a helpful reminder of all those rules we should have learned in high school.  This is a particular hard post for me to write considering that grammar and usage are a personal struggle (mainly because I HATE proofreading). Below you will find some suggestions in websites and books on this very subject.

Website (Highly Recommended by English Professors)

Books
  • Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr.
  • How to Write It by Sandra E. Lamb
  • Technical Communication by Mike Markel
  • Lifetime Encyclopedia of Letters by Harold E. Meyer

Dr. Susan Roach, Coordinator of the Technical Writing Program, says "Follow the guidelines exactly in any task driven writing".

I think I'll be ordering these today...

NCLAC is supported in part by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, a Federal agency.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Adminstrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Topic Three: Just Apply

This is less of a life experience and more of a soap box post.  So excuse me as this little lady steps up and gives her opinion.  Currently the Louisiana Division of the Arts is taking applications for Career Advancement Grants for Artists.  I've been blabbing about this grant since I got the first announcement email and I feel like I am beating a dead horse but here goes again...

Apply.  http://www.crt.state.la.us/arts/guidelines2012-ca.aspx

Now for my soap box, these grant monies are available because people in the arts administrative world work for it.  They lobby, argue, and write defending the importance of art and money for individual artists.  They talk about it so much and so intensely they often find themselves yelling at complete strangers. (Okay, maybe not all of them but I have definitely yelled at a few people and not all of them were strangers.)  They work because they think your work is important, so important that they believe you deserve extra funding just to produce  it.  So if you are a visual artist, dancer, actor, musician, writer, or media artist APPLY.

Do it.  Your work is important and what you do deserves funding.

This weeks post is by Leigh Anne Chambers, Executive Director of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council.  

NCLAC is supported in part by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, a Federal agency.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Adminstrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Topic Two: Google the Date

Recently I was planning an upcoming exhibition for an artist to be featured at Crescent City Coffeehouse.  The artist is a very talented regional photographer Bess Bieluczyk (check out her amazing work here www.bessart.com).  I checked the date for conflicts with other art events, civic events, and local sporting events.  The date was suprisingly clear.  Feeling relived I scheduled and began advertising.

Right after I had printed and addressed the last postcard I received an email from a NCLAC member with one question "Isn't that Super Bowl Sunday?".

There you have it ladies and gentlemen.  Google the date.  Do it.  It takes less than a minute.

Luckily the game does not start until later in the day and our event begins at 2pm which gives everyone more than enough time to come by see some amazing work and grab a beverage before engaging in football celebration.  Since our Saints might be a contender what's more perfect than some yummy beignets for your partying pleasure.

Secrets of an Arts Administrator

“Secrets of an Arts Administrator” will be a weekly blog post featuring anecdote from regional administrators/educators in the creative field.  It is NCLAC’s hope that through these real life experiences artists in all fields can gain practical knowledge for the industry.  As the famous author C.S. Lewis once said “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.” Topic One: On Time

“To be 15 minutes early is on time, to be on time is to be late, and to be late is to be DEAD.”  A quote most individuals who have had any experience in Theatre have heard, repeatedly.  I have to admit that the only thing that kept me from ever being late was a true fear that the director may in fact kill me.

I did not come to this “fear” on my own.  Instead I witnessed an event so terrorizing that it burned that phrase into the deep recesses of my unconscious self.   My freshman year of college during a technical rehearsal (i.e. a long day of coordinating lights, sounds etc.) a few actors/technicians did not show up for a scene change.  The scene ended and no one came out to change the set.  Instead of shouting for the late workers the director just told us all sternly to stay still and a quiet.  It became clear ten minutes later that we were all just going to wait for them to realize their mistake.  Twenty minutes later they did, I suppose the lack of dialogue finally broke them away from the poker game they were playing backstage.  We all expected the director to give them the “what for” right then.  But, he did not, in fact he said nothing.  We continued with the rest of rehearsal, the guilty party believing that the director was feeling particular forgiving that day, began to relax.  After the rehearsal was done we all sat down in the theatre waiting to be excused.   Our director slowly walked to the front turned around to face us and unleashed only what I imagine is close to the wrath of the Greek Gods.

But, now that I am on the other end of the artistic world I realize how crucial it is to be “on time”.  I’ve since come to the realization that perhaps the reason this was programmed into my brain was for the benefit of our director.  Perhaps it served as a warning so when charged with murder he could defend himself by saying he gave us all fair warning.

This week’s blog post was contributed by Leigh Anne Chambers, Executive Director of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council.  If you are a one of the crazy individuals who choose to put one foot in the artistic world and the other in the business/education realm and would like to contribute to “Secrets of an Arts Administrator” email us at nclac5@gmail.