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ADAPTING MODELS |
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A concluding theme of several of the Forums was a caution about replication vs. adaptation. When placemakers who are working in complex settings learn about a successful art-based project, it is tempting to try and replicate those successes in other locations. Many of the presenters have worked with other communities to adapt their models in different settings, and a universal caution was identified—adapting the model is very different from replicating it. |
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Each of the places presented attributed its success in no small part to a complex and thoughtfully crafted relationship to a particular setting. Village of Arts and Humanities started slowly, engaging neighborhood children in the process of creating the parks, thus overcoming suspicion and anger pervasive in the community. Similarly they based their work on the transformation of spaces that were abandoned, using the discarded detritus of the inner-city environment to create works of incredible beauty. With the creation of that beauty, based upon cultural traditions, came renewed community pride. |
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Similarly, Project Row Houses identified a cultural resource that embodied many important historical and aesthetic issues, and used that resource of the shotgun house, to further build cultural identity and participation through the gallery houses. Every decision by Lowe and his staff, drew from the strengths and unique cultural attributes of the Third Ward Community; it was not a solution borrowed from the outside and imposed there with no regard to setting. |
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Inner-City Arts consciously located in Los Angeles’ Skid Row, in order to make themselves accessible to kids living downtown with little other access to art education. NJPAC located in Newark, precisely in order to help enrich the life of that community, and to attract investment and attention by creating a sustained art presence in the community. The cultural traditions honored in Newark performances are those of Newark residents, and the facility reaches out to them to invite them to celebrate their own cultural traditions.
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OTHER TOPICS:
Art is Essential
Impacts
Measuring the Impacts
Sense of Place
Race and Diversity
Collaboration Helps
Seizing Opportunity
Art and Education
Challenges of Success
Leadership and Transition
Adapting the Models |
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