This workshop will introduce participants to the power of creating and using short personal/public stories for social action. First, we will learn the power of story to inspire and motivate. We will then enter into collaborative story circles where we will begin to build our individual stories. This workshop is for anyone who would like to encourage others to join in volunteering, enrolling, fundraising or citizen advocacy.
The City of Pittsfield in Berkshire County has transformed itself from the “hole in the donut” to a bustling creative hub in less than a decade through a strong focus on creative placemaking and cultural revitalization, and we’re still in progress. The role of city gov’t & the establishment of an Office of Cultural Development was key. We’ll tell you how it all happened. Anticipated audience: Blend.
This workshop is intended for anyone — artists, businesspeople, civic leaders and staff, and the general public — who wants to become more comfortable, proficient and effective at public speaking. When your goal is to persuade, inform, entertain or inspire an audience, your focus, and your audience’s attention, should be on your message, not you. Audience participation in this session is encouraged.
Wendell Berry wrote “If you don’t know where you are, you don’t know who you are.” Your feelings, experiences and emotions, plus what you know about nature, culture and history, create your ‘sense of place.’ When art is “place-based” or seen through the lens of place, it enriches your life and your region. It helps people focus on what we love and our vision for the future. Explore some prompts and practices to profoundly link your life and your work to the power of place. Your place could be from your past or present. NO experience needed! You’ll leave recharged, with fresh writings and ideas for how to foster a ‘sense of place.
In this workshop, participants will be coached by a seasoned journalist and award-winning teacher to gain a better understanding of how journalists work. I’ll talk about the similarities and differences in the specific needs of each group and walk them through the process that I use when interviewing to help them feel more comfortable with future press opportunities. Participants will also get tips to tune-up existing PR skills and learn how to prepare essential items for working with the press based on their field by learning:
-The difference between a media kit and press kit and why you need both.
-How to present your best self online and make social media work for you.
-The importance of a press release and the secrets to writing one that gets results.
-Why it’s vital to research the media before starting a conversation with them.
-The do’s and don’ts of when you the media wants to talk to you.
-The different types of interviews and how to navigate them without sinking your ship.
-How to follow-up and make the very best impression to create a relationship.
No more butterflies, second guessing and forgotten thoughts to wake them up in the middle of the night. This workshop will also include a short press release writing activity, fun review game with prizes, and Q&A time.
I would present a slide show of my photographs, including world news events, local people and businesses in the news, as well as public relations work. I would also talk about lessons learned from the above and tips on how to promote yourself and your work through local and national media outlets.
To have 3 setups demonstrating how to photograph your art – artists can sign up to bring a piece by for photographing – there they will see hands on lighting and be shown the difference styles of photography for their specific art. Mainly for artists but also for businesses who need to see the difference in good and bad product photography. Run Friday Afternoon and Saturday Morning -4 hour blocks.
I teach the basic tools of financial literacy to artists and other creatives, using the language and approach that fits this audience. Using case studies, illustrations, and worksheets, I present this often dry and boring (though vital) material in a manner that is accessible, informative, and (hopefully) funny.
This workshop will present the LCC program, guidelines, and standard application. It will introduce potential applicants to new funding source, allowing for open dialogue between MCC staff, LCC members and applicants around the granting process. This workshop also highlights accessible grant options benefiting every municipality in MA.