I’ve been thinking lately about the work that arts presenters do—those unsung heroes who curate performances and create programming for communities small and large.
Presenters choose the artists, often select repertoire, promote the events, grow audiences, and raise the necessary funds to keep it all going.
In our morphing performing arts industry, the roles of the presenter, artist, and manager have all become increasingly fluid, with artists creating their own home series (becoming part-time presenters), and managers at times acting as producers/presenters.
The truth is we are ALL in the business of presenting: we all work to connect the arts experience with our community.
Every once in a while, I come across an example of especially inspiring programming and its communication. Take a look below: a recent email I received from the series at the Rubin Art Museum, which is devoted to work from the Himalayas, where Tim McHenry is the Director of Public Programs and Performance.
First of all, the subject line drew me in—if you can’t get folks to open your email, it’s a problem. And I love how the message gets personal: addressing me, the reader, and the sheer inventiveness of the pairing of speakers. The music programming is just as provocative, because Tim looks to find artists who will perform music informed and responding to the museum’s collection: take a look.
For this week: Notice what programming (and communication) is getting you to stop and notice—what draws you in? I’d love to see your top picks of late—write in and share!
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