Convenings

We host gatherings for educators, artists, administrators, funders, and others looking for a rich exchange of arts ed ideas.

ACTIVATE Arts Learning Conference

October 9, 2023

We are excited to host the 2023 conference at August Wilson African American Cultural Center!

Revel in opening performances by Echoes of the Four Directions
Participate in interactive workshops facilitated by local experts
Take in a panel on arts ed policy, arts ed in schools, or arts ed in community spaces
Enjoy a lobby full of drop-in, multi-disciplinary artmaking opportunities
Network with regional arts educators
Earn continuing education (Act 48) credits

Interested in registering multiple staff members? Group registration is now open. Contact Yael at silky@artsedcollab.org to inquire. Individual registration opens August 2023.

Sliding Scale Rates

Thanks to support from The Grable Foundation and The Heinz Endowments, we are able to offer conference registration on a sliding scale:

$100 – my school has less than 20% of students from low-income households OR my organization’s annual revenue is more than $1 million
$80 – my school has 20-39% of students from low-income households OR my organization’s annual revenue is $750K-$999,999
$65 – my school has 40-59% of students from low-income households OR my organization’s annual revenue is $500K-$749,999
$55 – my school has greater than 60% of students from low-income households, my organization’s annual revenue is less than $500K, OR I am an independent teaching artist

Highlights from ACTIVATE 2022

On October 10, 2022, more than 100 educators from across the region participated in a variety of hands-on sessions all designed to perpetuate AEC’s mission: collaborating with educators to unlock the transformative power of the arts. The conference kicked off with an inspired opening performance by Clara Kent. Then Attack Theatre helped AEC introduce the Activating Arts Learning Framework to attendees through dance and spoken word. Concurrent sessions led by Jacquelin Walker, Celeta Hickman, Ja’Sonta Roberts, Michelle King, and Zena Ruiz showcased the talents and elevated the voices of historically marginalized creators. The day ended with a high-energy and deeply moving performance by Afro Yaqui Music Collective.

While words truly can’t convey the depth of the experience, ACTIVATE attendees shared meaningful responses about arts education and how to manifest liberated learning:

“Being honest with myself and those around me and embodying radical acceptance.”

“I am committed to creating spaces that embrace empathy + care + respect for all learners.”

“To empower students and young people to explore their inner world and express their truth through art.”

“I commit to bringing in experts to my classroom in order to increase knowledge + relevance. It’s ok for me not to know all the answers!”

“A safe space to explore, discuss, and create music that puts the creative power into the students’ hands.”