Nomadic Arts Administration

by masterfiddle on September 8, 2009

As my internship in Sisters, Oregon nears its end, I have begun to reflect on the adventure and lessons learned. One important thing that I had not considered prior to this expereince is the fluidity and mobility of the arts administration field as a whole. Dealing with financial struggles, technology issues and globalization can make the arts a moving target that becomes harder and harder for audiences to latch onto.

Artists and arts administrators must create clear messaging that quickly and easily portrays the value of the arts to the community. Here in Sisters, there are a few large umbrella arts organizations such as Sisters Art Works, Sisters Park and Recreation District (SPRD), and The Sisters Chamber of Commerce that organize arts events and support local artists. A bulk of the arts activity in this area are conceived, planned, and produced by local artist individuals who have a passion for the arts. Through house concerts, art classes and shows, and festivals, this small (1700 population) town is actaully brimming with art activities.

As the Community Arts Intern in Sisters, I have been working with four different organizations in Sisters all summer. Being a multi-purpose intern for an art gallery, an individual artist, and two festivals has been an eye-opening experience into the inner workings of multiple types of arts organizaitons. The internship has also illustrated the important role that individual artists play in motivating an artistic community.

Artsists in the Central Oregon area are extremely mobile and fill multiple roles such as being river rafting guides, grant consultants, art teachers, artists, and administrators. Artists and musicians wear multiple hats in larger metropolitain areas, but I am surprised at how it rings true for small Sisters, Oregon as well.My own possition as a nomadic arts intern – moving from one organizaiton to another and between generous home stay situations – has illuminated the importance of flexibility but also the value that location plays in the arts.

Nancy Becker glass art at Sisters Art Works

Although art is now traded globally, the economic impact of the arts begins in our own backyards.

The sense of place in Sisers and nearby Bend is driven by the forest and its preservation. While traveling between Eugene and Sisters on many occasions, I have collected some photos of the majestic mountain scenery. These pictures should give some idea of the beauty that the artists here are inspired to work with.