Tippecanoe Arts Federation

Incorporating Dance into Daily Life

2011-08-18T10:45:00.001-04:00

Most people know I love to dance. I have danced my entire life and love to share this passion with others. I have taught dance since college and have loved every minute of it. Once I had my own children, I started incorporating dance movement into everyday life. Flips, jumps, and leaps are normal playtime activities. But really is dance all that important? Dance helps with the Gross Motor Skills.

What are Gross Motor Skills:

Gross Motor Skills involve the large muscles of the body that enable such functions as walking, kicking, sitting upright, lifting, and throwing a ball.

The Importance of Gross Motor Skills:

Gross Motor skills are important for major movement functions such as walking, maintaining balance, coordination, jumping, reaching, and many others. Gross motor abilities share connections with other physical functions. A student's ability to maintain upper body support, for example, will affect his ability to write. Writing is a fine motor skill. Students with poor gross motor development, have difficulty with activities such as writing, sitting up in an alert position, watching classroom activity, and writing on a blackboard. For them, these activities can be physically draining. (http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/gi/p/grossmotorskill.htm)

With the No Child Left Behind Act and the stress on Math and Reading the educational system has put in place, having a good foundation of the gross motor skills will only help the child in the long run with some of the activities required for a school setting.

To start incorporating movements, we need to know a few and how to do them. This is a very short and basic list, but a list that students should know by the time they are out of kindergarten.

Definitions of basic terms/steps:

Hop: Spring from one foot and land on that same foot.

Skip: A series of step-hops on alternate feet.

Jump: Spring from two feet and land on two feet.

Leap: Spring from one foot and land on the other foot.

March: A walking step where the knees are lifted.

Ok, I think we are ready to incorporate these into our daily activities. There are many games students can play at home or on the play ground. These are a few common ones that almost everyone knows how to play.

Simon Says - great way to work on learning directions and body parts too
Follow the Leader - this can be done while walking the neighborhood
Hopscotch - a stick of chalk and you are set

We all know that as a child gets older, they ability to do different functions improves, add different variations to the steps.

Variations of basic steps:

Hops & Jumps:

Side to side

Forwards

Backwards

Turning

Over object

Across the floor

With claps

March:

Forwards

Backwards

Over objects

With claps

Use your imagination, add arms, and, most importantly, have fun. Share with us what you have done.

2011-08-05T13:16:00.000-04:00

As I was deciding on what topic to discuss this week, I decided to look at other blogs and see what they had to say on, well, anything. So, I went through Sollé Coaching's blog. Günes Yilmaztuerk is definitely an expert in the field of marketing, especially social media. As I was looking at the blogs I came across "Why Your Intern Isn't Your Online Marketing Voice." (Oh yes, I do recall her mentioning something about that in a blogging workshop of hers that I attended not long ago.) Many of us rely on volunteers and interns to get tasks done. So, I thought it was important to just share with you her blog on the topic.

Sure, they’re cheap labor. (Admit it.) And that young generation sure is handy with this Social Media stuff. And who has time to Facebook or Blog or Tweet. So sure, go ahead and give the young intern the responsibility of your Online Marketing. It makes sense. As much sense as giving your entire Rolodex to him and letting him loose because he knows how to use the phone.

You would never let him (or her – female interns are just as bad – we are an equal opportunity believer in lack of inexperienced intern qualifications) call your clients or potential clients, or represent you at network events. Why do it Online? All the content you post on Social Media platforms brands you. It becomes your reputation. And do you really want to leave your brand and your reputation in the hands of an inexperienced Intern?

What are you thoughts?

E-mail, E-mail, E-mail

2011-07-20T11:25:00.001-04:00

OK, I know this sounds like a silly thing, a blog all about having an e-mail address. Yes, I know it is the 21^st century and my children do not know a world with out computers, internet, and e-mail. However, as our summer helpers are working on compiling information for various databases, they have fully realized how many organizations do not have e-mail. I understand that many organizations are run by volunteers, and not all volunteers are comfortable with e-mail. However, I believe it is vital for any organization to sustain and grow to have one set e-mail account and not change for each new primary contact or president.

1. I already have a couple between work, school, and personal, why do I want to have another one?

Don’t look at it like you have another e-mail address; it is the organization’s e-mail. It is not something you need or have to be checking every 10 minutes on your phone.

Even some companies have one general e-mail so people do not have to try and figure out which department they really should be contacting.

Many universities have a simple e-mail for the departments or organizations.

2. Why not just use my personal one for the organizations? I will check it more regularly, making my response time more effective.

What happens when you are not the primary contact any more? (I have received some very upset e-mails for contacting the past president because that was the only e-mail I had.) With one set e-mail for the organization, it does not matter who the primary contact is.

You don’t have to let everyone know the new e-mails to contact after each switch of officers. I am not talking about just your members, but other organizations you work or have membership with will need to know the new e-mails.

It is easier for someone to remember myorganization@yahoo.com that doesn’t change than each officers’ personal address that may change on a yearly basis. (Plus, some personal e-mails are very hard to remember with their crazy spellings and random numbers.)

3. What about all the contacts I already have?

This is time consuming, but enter them all into the new account. (There are ways to speed it up with inputting and exporting the information, but I am not going to go into how to do that in this blog.) Once it is entered, you just have to keep it up dated.

Yes you will probably have some members who you contact personally on a regular basis. But there are many more that you need to send information/newsletters/minutes/etc to that you don’t need their contact information filling up your personal e-mail.

Do I have you convinced yet? If not, take a minute and think about how often you change officers, yearly for most organizations. Now think about all the places you have to change the new primary e-mail to: website, brochures, newsletters, all your members, the bank, membership organizations, office supply stores you have "membership" cards with, etc... Yes you will have to do this one more time if you set up a general e-mail, but you won't have to do it again.

If you are thinking that it is time to get a general e-mail set up, keep a few things in mind when getting started.

1. Decide what server you want to use. There are many free e-mail sites available. Yahoo!, Gmail, and Hotmail are some of the popular ones. While your cable and phone companies do offer free e-mail with your internet, I would not recommend them if you are relying on an officer's internet service. Remember, you will most likely lose the e-mail account if you no longer have their internet services.

2. Decide on the e-mail name. Keep it simple. Use the name of your organization or a shortened version. You want people to remember it and be able to share it.

3. Know who is going to check it. If more than one of you is going to check it, have a system so you know what is taken care of. You don’t want to double respond or worse, not respond at all.

4. Make sure more than one of you knows the password. Even if only your secretary is going to check it, someone else should know the password so they can get in if they need to. Remember to pass on the password if you change it. E-mail does you no good if no one can access it.

5. Check it regularly. Regularly does not have to be hourly or even daily. Checking it once a week, even if it is to make sure it is still empty, will work.

6. Don’t have it forwarded to your personal e-mail. I know, I know, it is a more effective response time to have it forwarded to the e-mail you check all the time. But some e-mails you need to keep for historical and record keeping. If they are in your personal e-mail, the organization doesn’t have them.

7. Use a web based system. Using a web based system allows you to check the e-mail anywhere and access all the e-mails you have saved. I love all the Outlook can do, but it will keep all your e-mails on that computer. And again, some e-mails you need to keep for historical and record keeping. If they are on your personal computer, the organization doesn’t have them.

I know it sounds like one more thing to do, but it really will make everything much easier in the long run.

If you have or are just starting to use a general e-mail for your organization, do you have any tips that helped you? Anything you have tried that didn't work?

Artist Statement

2011-07-06T11:31:00.001-04:00

I’m sure at one point you were asked to write an all-too-official ‘artists statement.’ It can be a divine or detrimental element to the impressions you leave on your audience. This statement essentially answers the general gist of your art. Here are a few common guidelines and rules to follow when writing a statement.

THE GENERAL FACTS: WHAT? and HOW?

What is your artwork made of? How do your make it? What is the process? It would be best to provide a general idea of what your work is. If you work with photography, mention it, but I do not need to know the intrinsic details.
Is there a special process to creating your work that resonates with the actual theme being delved in? How does the process affect you? If it is nothing particularly special to you, leave it out. There’s no need to confuse us with the technicalities of your work.

THE DEEPER MEANING: WHY?

Why do you do what you do? Themes? Significance?
Your statement should definitely touch base with any recurring themes. Talk about the significance of your work: what does it mean to you? Talk about yourself: what interested you in such themes?
When writing your statement, try to stray from unnecessary comparisons and obscure references. Often, this can pose as a hindrance rather than an aid.

RULE #1: KEEP IT SHORT AND SIMPLE

You are not writing a novel of your life–you are meant to entice us, but not formulate expectations of how we experience your work. No matter how much you attempt to explain your philosophies, methodologies, ideologies, etc. my point of view, is still, my point of view.
Keep it short and simple– give us just enough to fuel us to want to know more. I don’t need a book, but one word or two sentences isn’t really going to do any good either. Usually, an artist statement can range from one large paragraph to four short ones.
Again, I cannot stress this enough, simplicity is the key to connecting with your audience. Your statement should be in a general language that your audience can understand and interpret. You don’t want to eliminate people from your extensive audience by using an ancient or unfamiliar language. Think of it this way, an artist statement is essentially printed to explain your process and ideas when you are not there in person to speak–it’s somewhat of a tour guide.

RULE #2: GIVE IT TIME AND GIVE IT TO OTHERS

Sometimes going off on a tangent is easier that it your think. You may think that your piece is a God-given masterpiece in itself, trust me, wait a day or two and comeback to it, you’d be surprised.
Consider letting a few colleagues look over it, another perspective and opinion is always useful. If you are still unsure or have a dire need for perfection, why not hire a professional writer? Feedback is your friend!

RULE # 3 BE YOURSELF

I feel as though this should be the golden rule. Don’t create some sort of false façade to impress us. More than likely, you’ll have impressed us by just being your creative self anyway. If your artwork is personal, there has to be some personal aspect in your statement as well. Never be silent– just because your work speaks, doesn’t mean you have to be quiet.

RULE #4 NOTHING IS SET IN STONE

Anything is open to change. Once you get it done and said, doesn’t mean it’s set in stone.
With each theme and concept you explore–even with each medium–you should probably either update or write a new artists statement.
For example, let’s say you had an exhibition exploring themes of nature using watercolor. You are now having a new exhibition about the urban themes using photography as your medium, write a new statement. You may talk about your transition, but you cannot use the same statement. This new exhibition requires incorporation of new ideas and elements, with fluidity comes revision and change.
Yes, you can still incorporate and reuse consistent, knowledgeable information, but it must be relevant to your new exhibit.

Do not worry, it’s easier to write about how you feel and what you know than about the unknown. While these are just a few tips and guidelines to help with the process, more in-depth and detailed looks into writing artists statements are available. Here are a few links to help you out. (They’ve even helped me when I had to face that fateful day of writing mine).

Your Artist Statement: Explaining the Unexplainable
By Alan Bamberger

Writing Your Artist Statement
By Molly Gordon

How to Write an Artist's Statement
By Marion Boddy-Evans

Written by guest blogger and artist, Carianna Arredondo.

Go or Don't Go to a Workshop

2011-06-22T13:38:00.001-04:00

Everyday, individuals attend a workshop, conference, or webinar to learn more about an area of interest. Each of those individuals had to make a decision to attend or not. That decision can be determined very easily at times; my boss made me. If attending one of these events is not an essential requirement, how can one divvy out the costs and benefits of these things anyway? While these coming questions may appear very "duh worthy," try it out, you might surprise yourself.

1. Does the topic pertain to you? If you are a musician and the workshop is over photographing your work, you probably don’t need to go. Ask yourself: How will this affect me? In what light? Usually at such events, one is exposed to new perspectives and ideas that further their knowledge of a particular topic.

2. Is the topic discussed at your level? If you have never worked a camera, a workshop over advance photo manipulation is probably not for you. If the workshop description does not explain the expected knowledge, call the hosting organization and find out. You don’t want to be lost the entire time. Remember, a refresher course in something you already have learned but maybe don’t use on a regular basis doesn’t hurt.

3. Is it cost effective? With most people keeping a tighter hold on their wallets, you really have to take a close look if the cost is within your budget. Are there added expenses beyond the workshop fee like hotels and food? Remember, your time is also valuable. Consider your time when deciding its cost effectiveness.

4. Is the presenter any good? Often times the workshop description has a short bio about the presenter. Look them up on LinkedIn or other websites. See if there are any reviews or recommendations about the presenter. Ask around… word of mouth is still a wonderful resource. No matter how interesting the subject, a monotone speaker will not hold your attention.

5. Where is the workshop located? With the gas prices all over the place distance is something to consider. There are many organizations who offer workshops throughout a region. Check with your host organization to see if they will be offer the workshop in another county. Something may already be in the planning process, just not finalized and announced.

I hope these questions gave you some direction. Remember though, the golden rule for this; What is your passion? If anything, you learn. At best, you grow. Sometimes one must just go for it. On that note I'll leave you with this, Progress always involves risks. You can't steal second base and keep your foot on first. -Fredrick Wilcox

Share with us what workshops are you interested in?

Juriors, will they like it?

2011-06-08T16:32:00.000-04:00

Most artists have been through a jurying process if they have applied for an exhibition or fair. Sometimes it is a panel of jurors; while other times it is just one person. With everyone having their own opinion and interpretation of your work, how are you to know if they are going to like your work? It's simple, you don't. But, you can make sure your work follows some basic criteria so that you are putting your best foot forward.

1. Professionalism:

Make sure you complete and turn in all the requested materials on time. The fastest way to not be selected is to not submit a required document or to be late.
Did you follow the directions? Make sure the application is completely and appropriately filled out.
DO NOT hand write the information. Every library has a computer lab you can use to download and fill out the application.

2. Originality:

Make sure all your work is original in concept and/or presentation. You don't want someone copying your work, so don't copy theirs.

3. Artistic ability:

Make sure your images show your technique and ability. There are many great self-trained artists; however you can always learn something new and improve. Taking classes will only strengthen your abilities.
If you are proposing a specific technique, make sure your images show you have the ability to execute the technique. If the juror is not sure you can do it, they may not select you.

4. Appropriateness:

Know who your audience is. Is your work appropriate for them?
Know who the venue's audience is. Did they specify any subject matter not allowed?

5. Images:

Remember, the juror is usually only looking at an image of your work. Does the image really show your ability? Is it clear or fuzzy? Is the background distracting or enhancing?
Are your images formatted and submitted in the requested manner?
Workshops and classes are offered all the time to help artists learn to take the best image possible of their work. If you are by a college, contact them to see if there are any photography students looking for experience. Take advantage of your resources.

You may not be able to guarantee the juror personally likes your work and wants one for their wall, you can give them your best work in the best presentation.

What is IndianaArts.org?

2011-05-25T15:14:00.000-04:00

Many artists and organizations have heard us talk about IndianaArts.org. Enter your events on IndianaArts.org, integrate your website with it through ACE, market yourself through it, find and post calls for artists, etc... But, what exactly is it?

IndianaArts.org is a free website for artists and organizations throughout the state of Indiana. Allow me to take a moment and clarify, we are talking about all arts: Visual, Theatre, Musical, Dance, Literary. I am also talking to the cultural and historical organizations and individuals. We are all part of the arts and cultural community.

Now that we have that cleared up... IndianaArts.org was created as an one stop shop online resource for the arts in Indiana. It is the only statewide online resource. This resource is even used by the Indiana Arts Commission. Pretty impressive, huh... According IndianaArts.org, "there are more than 34,000 registered users, with an average of 25,000 web page views per month from members and the general public." Those are some impressive numbers.

"The site is owned and operated by Arts Place, Inc., a regional not-for-profit arts council located in East Central Indiana. The program is operating as a collaborative effort, involving over a dozen organizations and agencies across Indiana. Beginning in 1998, Arts Place launched the original centralized online arts database, gradually adding enhancements in collaboration with the Indiana Arts Commission, other Regional Arts Partners (RAP), and Traditional Arts Indiana."

That is all great, but how does all this pertain to me? Well, organizations and artists both use this site.
Organizations often:

post up coming events
post calls for artists
post job opportunities
integrate the event calendar to their website

Artists often:

post up coming performances/exhibitions
look for calls
look for job opportunities
list information about them and their art

So, you are wanting to learn to take better pictures of your work. Check out the classifieds and events to see what workshops are being offered in digital images. Wanting to learn to dance? Check out the events to see what classes are listed. Looking for an artist to hang work in your business? Post a classified. This is what IndianaArts.org is. One place for the arts and cultural communities to post and find information within the state of Indiana.

Request for Proposals

2011-02-17T15:24:00.000-05:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is requesting design proposals for a mural. The site identified for the mural is on 105 E Smith Street, Oxford, Benton County, Indiana. This is a paid opportunity for a qualified artist or team of artists working collaboratively to create a design. The artist(s) chosen for the project will work directly with area at-risk and underserved youth to execute the design.

The Mural Art Initiative is a collaborative educational outreach program that serves area at-risk and underserved youth populations. The three primary objectives of this multi-faceted program are to: beautify community areas vandalized by graffiti, visually promote the clear benefit of arts in our community, and provide a life-long positive impact on all project participants.

The application and additional information are available at http://www.tippecanoearts.org/callsforentry/RFP-Benton%20County.pdf. All proposals are due by 5:00pm, March 18, 2011 to:

Tippecanoe Arts Federation
638 North St
Lafayette, IN 47901

All questions regarding the proposal should be directed to Tetia Lee at tetial@tippecanoearts.org or (765) 423-2787.

The Mural Art Initiative is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Benton Community Foundation, Benton County Economic Development, and Indiana Arts Commission.

Boiler Bytes: Galleries Art Cart

2011-01-06T09:27:00.000-05:00

2012 Gallery Deadline Coming

2010-11-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

Friday night was the last Gallery Opening of 2010. The year has flown by again. We are looking ahead to to the future... 2012. If you have ever thought of showing in our galleries, get your images ready and application together because the deadline for 2012 Exhibition Series Applications is next week. Don't miss out on your opportunity to exhibit in the Tippecanoe Arts Federation Galleries in 2012! The TAF Gallery Committee is now accepting applications for visual art exhibitions in the Wells Community Cultural Center galleries. All applications are due next Friday, November 12, 2010 by 5:00pm (est). Applicants will be submitting to exhibit during the 2012 calendar year.

All artists, art groups, arts organizations, and schools from the Region IV counties are eligible to submit an application and electronic portfolio for panel review. Those located in the following counties are eligible to apply: Benton, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Fountain, Howard, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Pulaski, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Warren, and White.

Applications and guidelines can be found on the TAF website at www.tippecanoearts.org. For more information about the TAF Gallery program, contact Paige Sharp, Director of Arts Education and Regional Services at rsd@tippecanoearts.org or 765-423-2787.

ASAP Partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters

2010-10-18T12:21:00.000-04:00

How much fun is this? We are taking ASAP on the road. Earlier this month, Purdue Beat Society visited the Boys and Girls Club. Now, we are teaming up with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Tuesday, October 19^th at the Morton Community Center in West Lafayette, volunteer artist Gail Johnston will lead a group of Big Brothers Big Sisters, or "Bigs and Littles" in an exciting clay class. The class, offered as a meaningful activity for volunteer mentors and their young partners, is a new expanded component of the Tippecanoe Arts Federation After School Arts Program (ASAP).

Bethany Shaw, Case Manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wabash Valley recently heard about the ASAP program at an Our Kids meeting held at the Community and Family Resource Center. She quickly called TAF to inquire about a possible partnership.

Paige Sharp, who directs the ASAP program, worked with Shaw to construct a tailor-suited class. "TAF was happy to find a way to build this new partnership into the ASAP program, working with Big Brothers Big Sisters deepens the program's impact while meeting community cultural planning goals," said Sharp. All artwork created in the clay class will be included in the ASAP Exhibition which opens Friday, December 10th from 5-7pm.

"Everyone I've talked to thus far is thrilled!" extolled Shaw.

ARTreach

2010-09-24T09:22:00.000-04:00

When we launched ARTreach back in May, I was excited. Wow, a program to put instruments that are just sitting around collecting dust to use. On top of that, we had a grant from NCHS so we could purchase a new instrument for each one we received. The community embraced this outreach program with arms more open that we had anticipated. It is great to live in such a generous community.
When we approached the band and orchestra directors, they were both excited and skeptical. Their concerns were legitimate and were addressed the best we could. Once school started, they embraced the program, bringing me names of students in need of an instrument. Finally, we were going to get instruments repaired and purchased. We were seeing the next step of the program come about.
While all of this was wonderful, it couldn't prepare you for giving the instrument to a student. Too see the faces and excitement on a 6th or 7th grader makes the program more that you could imagine. They come in excited, they are about to get an instrument. Then you show them the instrument, the excitement grows. It is more than they could have ever expected, and it is about to be theirs. As they walk out of the building with the instrument in hand, they have a glow of excitement that is about to explode. They are ready to go home and practice.
On top of all of this, you have the parents. They don't want to tell their child they cannot play an instrument because they can't afford one. So, there is a sigh of relief come over them when you tell them the instrument is ready. They are so happy and grateful for the generosity of the community and NCHS to have a program like ARTreach.
ARTreach is one of the most rewarding programs I have ever been a part of. The expression on the student's face will melt any heart and make even the worst day turn around.

Busy weekend with more to come

2010-09-20T11:16:00.001-04:00

Friday night was the last Gallery Walk of 2010. We had lots of fun with the One Great Read hanging out with us and the Bum Ditty Barn Dance Band keeping us hopping with their great music. The artwork is, as always, absolutely wonderful. (If you missed it, you have until October 22 to check it out.)
Sunday was Art on the Wabash. How exciting to see our favorites and many new faces. It is even more exciting when a new artist to the fair wins the People's Choice Award. Donna Leuck won with her kitchen robots. They are really cool.
On top of it all was the Apple Popcorn Festival. Things are really hopping and only getting more exciting over the next month. Starry Night Arts and Music Festival is October 1 with the Feast of the Hunters Moon that Saturday and Sunday. Bravo Brunch is three weeks away, October 13. (RSVP by Sept 27.) Of course Third Friday, October 15. The final Gallery Reception of 2010 at TAF, October 29. There are lots of wonderful Arts, Music, and Cultural events happening in the next month, that I know I do not have them all.
To keep on top of the many events happening, check out www.tippecanoearts.org.

Final Gallery Walk of 2010

2010-09-15T15:20:00.000-04:00

You know fall is just around the corner... our mornings are cooler, days are starting to shorten, and the last Gallery Walk is here. Friday the 17th is the final Gallery Walk of 2010. There are 24 businesses participating, with many new ones, along with our favorites. Grab your favorite walking companion and take a stroll through downtown Lafayette. While your at it, let us know what your favorite part of the Walks are?

2012 Gallery Series

2010-08-19T11:46:00.000-04:00

I can't believe the 2010 Gallery Series is coming closer to the end. We have three great shows up through Sept 10. Then, there are only two more exhibitions left. Time has surely flown by. But don't fear, we have a get set of shows for 2011 all scheduled. As we realize how fast time has gone, we start to think to the future: 2012. We are accepting applications for exhibition in 2012. All the information is available online. The deadline for applications is November 12, 2010. Of course, if you have any questions contact Paige. She has all the answers, or will at least find them.

Fall ASAP

2010-08-11T13:53:00.000-04:00

Everyone has been asking and anticipating the fall schedule. Well, the brochure is finally done! We have lots of new classes, all of which sound very exciting: songwriting, tattoo art and design, artful travel. Of course, we have brought back the dance classes, clay arts classes, and 2-D arts for the younger students, and the DJ Spin classes. Everything is available on the website, including enrollment, www.tippecanoearts.org

ARTreach--keep the instruments coming!

2010-07-21T10:11:00.001-04:00

In May 2010, the Tippecanoe Arts Federation announced the launch of ARTreach, a musical lending library outreach program. Through the generosity of the community, the Federation collected over 55 musical instruments from flutes and clarinets to guitars and accordions. "The community has generously surpassed our initial expectations," states Executive Director, Tetia Lee.

While the Federation is looking towards the second phase, purchasing a brand new instrument for each instrument donated, they are still conducting the Instruments in the Attic campaign. The community is asked to continue donating old or no longer used band and orchestral instruments.

This program seeks to benefit the area youth who could not otherwise afford the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. This program is made possible through a generous grant from North Central Health Services (NCHS) which allows for the creation and implementation of the ARTreach program in Tippecanoe County.

ARTreach is intended to provide Tippecanoe County students at the 6th grade level with the opportunity to learn an instrument. The concept of the lending library is to provide an instrument to a student that could be used for multiple years. The instruments will be reissued when they become available to cultivate an additional student's interest in music. "It is our hope that this exposure to music during these critical years will cultivate life long enthusiasts for the arts and aid in the development of the child's cross discipline education" states Lee.

Vote Taste on WLFI

2010-07-14T09:17:00.000-04:00

The weekly poll for WLFI is the Lafayette summer festivals. Cast your vote today for Taste of Tippecanoe at www.wlfi.com

2010 Arts Capital Project and Capacity Building Grants

2010-06-29T16:08:00.000-04:00

The reception for the Arts Capital Project and Capacity Building Grant Recipients was great. Thank you to everyone who attended. Congratulations to all those who received an award: Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, the Delphi Preservation Society, John E. Christian Family Memorial Trust, Arts in Action, Friends of the Frankfort Public Library, Arts Place, and Purdue Galleries.

Since 2004, NCHS has awarded well over one million dollars to arts and cultural organizations through the Tippecanoe Arts Federation. TAF Executive Director Tetia Lee commented, "TAF is proud to be able to distribute these grants on behalf of NCHS. The funded projects this year will enable these organizations to increase their capacity and to deliver enhanced programming and services to our local communities."

ARTreach

2010-05-18T11:04:00.000-04:00

ARTreach is going great. The program has been recognized nationally in the Americans for the Arts newsletter.
We have received over 25 instruments and more are coming in. This is great, because this means we can purchase 25 new instruments for the students. Just think of how many students will now get to learn an instrument that before would not have been able to. Keep the instruments coming!

Launch of ARTreach

2010-05-06T16:49:00.001-04:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is pleased to announce the launch of ARTreach, a musical lending library outreach program. This program seeks to benefit the area youth who could not otherwise afford the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. This program is made possible through a generous grant from North Central Health Services (NCHS) which allows for the creation and implementation of the ARTreach program in Tippecanoe County.

In the first phase of implementation, the Federation, in collaboration with Lafayette School Corporation, West Lafayette School Corporation and Tippecanoe County School Corporation, will conduct an Instruments in the Attic campaign. The community is asked to donate old or no longer used band and orchestral instruments for repair (flutes, clarinets, oboes, saxophones, tubas, etc.) For every one instrument donated, a brand new instrument will be purchased for the lending library with funds by NCHS. North Central Health Service Board Member Dr. Jim Poulos has already donated the program's first two instruments. Poulos regarded, "after I listened to the ARTreach presentation...I called my son Christopher and asked if he would mind donating his old instruments to the program. Christopher's mentor Mr. Don Isaacs, told Chris if and when he got finished with his instruments it would be a wonderful gesture to pass them on."

ARTreach is intended to provide Tippecanoe County students at the 6th grade level with the opportunity to learn an instrument. The concept of the lending library is to provide an instrument to a student that could be used for multiple years. The instruments will be reissued when they become available to cultivate an additional student's interest in music. "It is our hope that this exposure to music during these critical years will cultivate life long enthusiasts for the arts and aid in the development of the child's cross discipline education" states Executive Director, Tetia Lee.

So many opportunities

2010-03-22T13:58:00.000-04:00

There are so many opportunities for artists coming across our desks each week. We are constantly updating the information as we receive it. A few dates are just around the corner...

2010 Contemporary Realism Biennial
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Deadline for submissions April 2, 2010

Annual Fundraiser for Tippecanoe Child Care
April 15, 2010

City of Lafayette requests proposals
from artists for public art to be presented
within the Arts & Cultural District of Downtown Lafayette, Indiana
Deadline for submissions extended to 4:00 pm April 30, 2010

Visit http://www.tippecanoearts.org/opportunities.html to learn more about these and other great opportunities!

City of Lafayette extends deadline of Public Art Project - Call for Artists

2010-02-26T11:01:00.000-05:00

The City of Lafayette is extending the deadline for proposals from artists for public art within the Arts & Cultural District of Downtown Lafayette, Indiana. At the urging of interested area artists the City is adding 60 days to the original deadline and will accept proposals now through April 30^th at 4:00PM.

Four pieces of artwork will be selected by the Public Art Committee with the goal of adding to the City's permanent public art collections. Artists are encourage to be creative in their selection of materials while considering safety and maintenance common to publicly accessible works of art. Artists are also encouraged take into consideration the unique architectural or cultural history of Lafayette. All proposals are due at the Community Development and Redevelopment office in City Hall by April 30th, 2010, 4:00pm. For the complete submission information: http://www.lafayette.in.gov/egov/docs/1266506986_161895.pdf Call 765-807-1090 or e-mail mdeverall@lafayette.in.gov for additional information.

Art Mix Call for Entries

2010-02-11T14:36:00.004-05:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is seeking artists to participate in Art Mix, an event to showcase arts and artists within our region. The Art Mix kick off party is scheduled for April 17th, from 7:00 to 10:00pm at Black Sparrow in downtown Lafayette. Artwork will be in three downtown venues for three weeks for patrons to view and purchase. A minimum of $5000 in Purchase Awards will be awarded during Art Mix. Commitments from all artists interested in participating are due by March 13, 2010.

For more information and the Artist Commitment Form, visit: http://www.tippecanoearts.org/callsforentry/Art%20Mix-Artists-inside.pdf.

Designs for Mural Requested

2010-02-11T10:29:00.000-05:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is requesting design proposals for a mural. The site identified for the mural is on North River Road, behind Spurlocks West Restaurant in West Lafayette, Indiana. This is a paid opportunity for a qualified artist or team of artists working collaboratively to create a design. The Artist(s) chosen for the project will work collaboratively with area at-risk and underserved youth to execute the design.

The Mural Art Initiative is a collaborative educational outreach program that serves area at-risk and underserved youth populations. The three primary objectives of this multi-faceted program are to: beautify community areas vandalized by graffiti, visually promote the clear benefit of arts in our community, and provide a life-long positive impact on all project participants.

The application and additional information are available at http://www.tippecanoearts.org/callsforentry/RequestforProposalMuralWall.pdf. All proposals are due by 5:00pm, March 12, 2010 to:

Tippecanoe Arts Federation
638 North St
Lafayette, IN 47901

All questions regarding the proposal should be directed to Tetia Lee at tetial@tippecanoearts.org or (765) 423-2787.

The Mural Art Initiative is made possible through the generous sponsorship of PEFCU, Community Foundation, and Indiana Arts Commission.

City of Lafayette seeks Public Art

2010-01-28T09:56:00.002-05:00

In January, the Indiana Arts Commission announced Downtown Lafayette/West Lafayette among the state's first cultural districts. The new Tippecanoe Arts and Culture District is seeking artists for the Public Art Project.

Four pieces of artwork will be selected by the Public Art Committee with the goal of adding to the City's permanent public art collections. Artists are encourage to be creative in their selection of materials while considering safety and maintenance common to publicly accessible works of art. Artists are encouraged take into consideration the unique architectural or cultural history of Lafayette.

All proposals are due at the Community Development and Redevelopment office in City Hall by February 26, 2010, 4:00pm. For the complete submission information: http://www.tippecanoearts.org/callsforentry/LafayettePublicArtSpring_2010.pdf. Call 765-807-1090 or e-mail mdeverall@lafayette.in.gov for additional information.

Website and E-mail working

2010-01-20T16:35:00.002-05:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation's website and e-mails are up and running. If you e-mailed us in the last few days, you may want to resend them. Thank you for your patience!

No e-mail or website

2010-01-19T09:28:00.002-05:00

DCWI's is not working and has not since yesterday afternoon. Therefore our website and e-mail is down. If you e-mailed us yesterday, we didn't get it. If you need to contact us please call us--423-2787. I will let you know once it is up and working. Thank you for your patience.

Young Audiences Workshop

2010-01-07T10:32:00.000-05:00

The workshop, Arts for Learning, with Young Audiences has been postponed to Thursday, January 14 due to the weather.

Be safe everyone!

ASAP Exhibition

2009-12-14T14:58:00.000-05:00

Artwork from the students of the After School Arts Program have been hung in the East Gallery for one week. They have done a wonderful job on all of it.

Friday night, we had an opening reception for them. It was a great time with the Purdue Beat Society playing and demonstrating the turn tables. (A DJ Spin class is being offered next semester.)

If you get a chance this week stop in and check out their great work and pick up a brochure for next semester's classes.

New Murals

2009-11-17T11:05:00.000-05:00

We are accepting proposals for a new mural in White County. Through a grant from White County Community Foundation’s Women Giving Together program we are able to expand into Monticello.

For the application: http://www.tippecanoearts.org/forms/RFPS/RFP-White%20CountyMural.pdf

For informational meetings for Renaissance Magic: Plants, Potions, and Poetry exhibition

2009-10-30T10:12:00.001-04:00

Informational meeting open to those interested in submitting artwork (visual, literary, or other) for the upcoming Tippecanoe Arts Federation exhibition Renaissance Magic: Plants, Potions, and Poetry. The meeting will be at the held at TAF, 638 North Street in Lafayette on Wednesday, November 11th from 6:30-7:30pm. All interested artists and arts and cultural organizations located in the Region 4 Arts Partnership district are invited to attend and learn more about the exhibition, how they can participate, and to help brainstorm ideas. Artists are encouraged to create works based upon the theme, in whatever medium they prefer.

Renaissance Magic: Plants, Potions, and Poetry is offered collaboratively with Purdue University Hicks Undergraduate Library in support of their Harry Potter exhibition, opening this March. The TAF collaborative exhibition, open to all artists, will be on view April 2 – May 9, 2010.

The Region 4 Arts Partnership district is comprised of the following counties: Benton, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Fountain, Howard, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Pulaski, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Warren, and White.

Bravo for the Arts

2009-10-21T14:44:00.000-04:00

Tippecanoe Arts Federation held their annual Bravo for the Arts this afternoon. Bravo for the Arts brings together legislators, business owners and employees, arts administrators, artists and community volunteers to celebrate all those who create and support the arts. The event was made possible through the generosity of Duke Energy, WBAA, University Plaza Hotel, Greater Lafayette Commerce and artist Zach Medler.

Beginning with a proclamation of Arts and Humanities Month from Mayors John Dennis and Tony Roswarski, Representative Shelia Klinker, and Senator Ron Alting; the event highlights included a keynote address by Dr. Terry Whitt Bailey, President and CEO of Cornerstone Center for the Arts and President of the Indiana Coalition for the Arts who gave and energetic and inspiring address about the importance of the arts and voicing that enthusiasm for the arts in our community. Additionally, Salin Bank received the 2009 Bravo Award for their outstanding contributions to arts and cultural organizations and this year’s John Corey Award went to Virgil St. John for his hard work and dedication to many of the arts and cultural organizations in Tippecanoe County.

Tippecanoe Arts Federation and the Indiana Arts Commission recognized the following recipients of the FY2010 Regional Partnership Initiative grants for Region 4:

Civic Theater of Greater Lafayette, Purdue University Convocations, Lafayette Symphony Orchestra, Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, Friends of the Frankfort Public Library, Kokomo Civic Theater, Bach Chorale Singers, Prairie Arts Council, Logansport Art Association, Long Center for the Performing Arts, IU Kokomo Gallery,
Kokomo Park Band, Book Readers & Horn Blowers, Psi Iota, Beta Alpha Chapter, Kokomo Community Concerts, Indiana Fiddlers’ Gathering, Purdue University Jazz, Tippecanoe County Historical Association, Tipton County Pork Festival, Delphi Elementary School, Flora Monroe Township Library, Friends of Bob Music Co-op, Words on the Go,
Tri Kappa, Art League of Montgomery County, Lew Wallace Study Preservation Society, All Saints Catholic School, & Wabash Valley Youth Symphony.

Several programs of Lafayette/West Lafayette Cultural Plan already taking shape under TAF's leadership

2009-09-23T09:25:00.000-04:00

Check it out! The Cultural Plan is starting to take shape!

The Cultural Plan for Lafayette/West Lafayette, led by the Tippecanoe Arts Federation, is already listing several successes early in its implementation process.

* The Tippecanoe Arts Federation officially assumed leadership of implementing the Cultural Plan for Lafayette/West Lafayette on July 1.

* A formal Arts Facility Needs Assessment Committee was formed to oversee an assessment of the community's cultural venues. The North Central Health Services' foundation arm has awarded funding toward this study with additional funds from the Barnabas Foundation. A unanimous decision by the TAF board of directors to support the committee’s recommendation to engage a consulting team consisting of leading professionals from Progressive AE, Webb Management and Jones and Phillip took place in August. This team of experts will conduct the Facility Needs Assessment, which is scheduled to be completed by January of 2010.

* The communities of Lafayette, West Lafayette, and Tippecanoe County have expressed their commitment and support for the implementation of the Cultural Plan.

* In August TAF launched ASAP, an After School Arts Program in conjunction with the cultural plan to have more arts activities for youth, teens and young adults as well as make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth in our community. TAF is pleased to announce the McAllister Foundation has provided generous support for this program.

* A Cultural Asset Map, designed to provide an inventory of the community’s arts and cultural resources, will be completed in the coming months thanks to a partnership with the Purdue Center for Regional Development.

"Working for tomorrow starts today," said Tetia Lee, executive director of the Tippecanoe Arts Federation, who is leading implementation of the Cultural Plan for Lafayette/West Lafayette. "The plan, drawn from input from more than 200 local residents and community leaders, is beginning to take shape as a roadmap for action for the next 10 to 15 years and reflects a vision for arts and cultural development in the community."

Artist in Residence Program Returns

2009-09-21T16:09:00.000-04:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is pleased to announce that thousands of students will have the opportunity to work directly with top professional artists for the second consecutive year. This opportunity has been made possible through a grant Tippecanoe Arts Federation received from the JP Morgan Chase Foundation. Funds will be used to provide libraries, community centers and schools with the ability to bring in artists that are trained, knowledgeable, practicing professionals that are enthusiastic and motivated, into settings where they can share the joy and benefits of the creative process.

Last year, this program benefited 10 counties throughout Region 4: Benton, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Jasper, Newton, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Warren, and White and brought the arts to a new level within our communities. Recipient organizations included the Frankfort Community Public Library, Delphi Public Library, Tipton County Public Library, Seeger High School, Happy Hollow Elementary, Child Development and Family Studies at Purdue University, Prairie Crossing Elementary and the Prairie Arts Council.

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is the umbrella organization and arts council for fourteen counties. TAF provides educational opportunities in the visual, performing, and literary arts, outreach programs for both underserved communities and at-risk youth, and funding for operational expenses to fellow arts organizations region-wide. For more information about the Tippecanoe Arts Federation or to apply for an artist residency, contact Tetia Lee at 765-423-2787, tetial@tippecanoearts.org or on the web at www.tippecanoearts.org

Opening Reception at the Tippecanoe Arts Federation August 7th

2009-07-23T10:58:00.001-04:00

Tippecanoe Arts Federation will host artists Jim Binkley, Laelle Busch, and Diane Gee for their first solo exhibits in the Tippecanoe Arts Federation galleries. The Tippecanoe Arts Federation has hosted exhibits for 19 years featuring work by artists from new and emerging to seasoned professional and even organizations. Join us August 7th from 6:00-8:00pm at the Wells Community Cultural Center as we celebrate their opening. The reception is free and open to the public. The exhibit will run from August 7 through September 11 at the Wells Community Cultural Center, 638 North St., Lafayette. The Wells Community Cultural Center galleries are open and free to the public Tuesday through Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm.

Jim Binkley

Casualties of War

Various Media

East Gallery

The work in this show is based on photographs relating to war, mostly of soldiers who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. “To me, there is a sadness in photographic portraits, a suggestion of mortality, all the more true when we know that those we see pictured have indeed died. If there is a purpose to my work it is to express this feeling-- and the ultimate futility and waste of not just this war but any war—emphasized somehow by the process of reproducing into another medium,” states the artist.

The show consists of oil paintings, etchings and relief prints, and digital drawings. Jim Binkley is a professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University and has taken several Purdue art classes over the years.

Laelle Busch

Tavolara: a compilation

Prints and Drawings

West Gallery

Laelle Busch was raised in West Lafayette and received her BFA in printmaking from Washington University in St. Louis in 2008. Her work ranges from representational to abstract, however, it is united by the theme of human interaction with the earth. Fascinated by both the positive and negative effect people have in shaping the earth, she works with natural patterns of growth and accumulation which are meditations on this relationship.

Diane Gee

Patterns and Forms: Geometry in Art

Ceramics

Northwest Gallery

This exhibit explores geometry and other mathematical principles in artistic pottery forms. According to the artist, “The intent is to show that art and the sciences are not mutually exclusive! Math and Art are strongly linked, with synergistic and rich relationships. Mathematics is not just theoretical; it is imbedded in many patterns and forms which are actively present around us. It has a beauty and vitality which offers a flexible structure for creative exploration and expression. This exhibit links the two through the forms, and includes summary explanations of the associated math, as well as some interactive exercises.”

2010 Gallery Walk Dates

2009-07-23T10:34:00.000-04:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is pleased to announce the dates for the 2010 Gallery Walks: May 14, July 16, and September 17, 2010.

Started in 2000, Gallery Walks were conceived and begun by the Tippecanoe Arts Federation as a fun and relaxing way for residents from Tippecanoe and surrounding counties to visit Lafayette and appreciate local architecture, culture, and artistic talent. Over the years, the Gallery Walks have grown to include an average of 25 businesses. In 2009, the Gallery Walks extended into West Lafayette, drawing residents from hilltop to hilltop. The Gallery Walks bring hundreds to the downtown Lafayette and West Lafayette area for this fun and exciting event in celebration of the arts and community.

Mark your calendars for the 10^th year of this wonderful event of local art and culture.

Request for Proposals for Mural Art Initiative

2009-07-13T10:40:00.000-04:00

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is requesting proposals for a mural to be created on the Riverside Skating Rink in Tapawingo Park, West Lafayette. This is a paid opportunity for a qualified artist or team of artists working collaboratively to create a design.

The Mural Art Initiative is a collaborative educational outreach program that serves Greater Lafayette area at-risk and underserved youth populations. The three primary objectives of this multi-faceted program are to: beautify community areas vandalized by graffiti, visually promote the clear benefit of arts in our community, and provide a life-long positive impact on all project participants.

The application and more information is available at http://tippecanoearts.org/callsforentry/RiversideSkateRinkMuralRFP.pdf All submissions of proposals are due by 5:00pm on August 14, 2009 to the

Tippecanoe Arts Federation

638 North St

Lafayette, IN 47901.

All questions regarding the proposal should be directed to Tetia Lee at tetial@tippecanoearts.org or (765) 423-2787.

The Mural Art Initiative is made possible through the generous sponsorship of PEFCU, Community Foundation, and Indiana Arts Commission.

Taste of Tippecanoe Accepting Press Kits for 2010

2009-07-10T16:57:00.000-04:00

The Taste of Tippecanoe is accepting press kits and promotional material from musicians for the 29th Annual Taste of Tippecanoe until September 15, 2009. The Taste of Tippecanoe is an annual fundraising event for the Tippecanoe Arts Federation. The Tippecanoe Arts Federation is the umbrella organization and arts council for 14 counties in North Central Indiana. The TASTE highlights various genres of music on 9 stages to an audience of nearly 40,000.

Performers in all genres of music will be considered and local and regional musicians are strongly encouraged to apply. TASTE 2010 will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2010.

If you have an interest in performing at the 2010 Taste, please submit a press kit (recording, photo if possible, a short biography, references, and contact information including e-mail) to:

Taste of Tippecanoe

638 North Street

Lafayette, IN 47901

Attn: 2010 Bands

Electronic press kits will be considered but you must submit a written request to perform. Electronic press kits should be e-mailed to mark@tasteoftippecanoe.org.

A selection process will take place in October and you will be notified by November 15, 2009.

2009 Spring Gallery Walk May 15

2009-05-11T16:48:00.000-04:00

2009 Spring Gallery Walk May 15

Join your friends and neighbors for an evening of the arts! Tippecanoe Arts Federation proudly presents the second of the 2009 Season of Gallery Walks. The Spring Walk will take place from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15^th. Over 20 participating venues from downtown Lafayette and West Lafayette will be featuring the arts. Regional artists exhibit their original artwork in downtown businesses while the Citybus trolley provides quick transport from hilltop to hilltop. The Walks have become an anticipated tradition over the years, bringing hundreds to the downtown area. Come and enjoy the sights, the sounds, and the ambience of downtown Greater Lafayette!

The Gallery Walks were conceived and begun by the Tippecanoe Arts Federation nine years ago as a fun and relaxing way for residents from Tippecanoe and surrounding counties to visit Lafayette and appreciate local architecture, culture, and artistic talent.

The Spring Walk is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Caterpillar and WBAA Radio.

Tippecanus Rex

2009-04-13T11:56:00.000-04:00

The (un)natural history of Tippecanoe County has come to the Tippecanoe Arts Federation. In conjunction with Purdue Galleries, the Tippecanoe Arts Federation presents Tippecanus Rex through May 10.

Purdue Galleries director Craig Martin says, "Tippecanus Rex" is about creativity and imagination from people of all ages in this area. It’s a chance to know and celebrate (and maybe make up) the history of what we are and to exaggerate and Build the big myths of Tippecanoe County."

"The project is meant to be whimsical and imaginative, teasing visitors with mythical beasts, imagined histories and fake statistics. It also emphasizes the contributions and new creative works of artists, writers and performers in this area."

Tippecanoe Arts Federation director Tetia Lee says, “This show epitomizes the idea of community spirit as it invites every citizen, big or small, to partake in this creative endeavor."

Don't miss out on seeing this great show and wonderful imaginations of local artists.

What do you think?

2009-03-16T16:33:00.000-04:00

How do you think the Cultural Plan is going?