Receptions & Networking Opportunities

Opening Reception: Sightings in Seattle
Thursday, June 18, 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.

Kick off convention at Seattle’s premier performance venue, the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall at Seattle Center. Enjoy sumptuous food and wine from sustainable Northwest producers. Experience a fusion of modern dance and visual art from Ecuadorian choreographer Carla Barragán's company BQdanza and the unpredictable genius of Seattle circus troupe Circus Contraption. Transportation to the Opening Reception via the Seattle Monorail departs every 10 minutes from Westlake Center Mall (5th and Pine Streets). One round-trip monorail ticket will be provided on-site. If you have special needs regarding transportation, please inquire about alternative transportation, prior to 5:30 p.m. on June 18, at the Seattle Visitor Center & Concierge Services on the street level of the Washington State Convention & Trade Center.

The McCaw Hall Gift Shop will be open during the Opening Reception.

Americans for the Arts Action Fund Members’ Reception and PAC Fundraiser with Special Guest Midori
Friday, June 19, 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

Please join renowned violinist and music educator Midori as she delivers special remarks at the Americans for the Arts Action Fund Members’ Reception and PAC Fundraiser. This event is for current Arts Action Fund members interested in contributing to the political action committee (PAC). You must be a member of the Arts Action Fund in order to contribute to the PAC. Free Advocate level memberships are now available. The Arts Action Fund was created for citizens and organizations interested in advancing the arts politically in America. 

Contributions to Americans for the Arts Action Fund or its PAC are not tax deductible as a charitable donation for federal income tax purposes. Not paid for by Americans for the Arts. Minimum PAC contribution required: $35.00

The violinist Midori made her historic debut at the age of 11 when she was introduced as a surprise guest artist by conductor Zubin Mehta at the New York Philharmonic's annual New Year's Eve concert in 1982. Since that night more than 25 years ago, she has established a record of achievement which sets her apart as a master musician, an innovator, and a champion of the developmental potential of children. Since 1992, Midori has established four community engagement organizations which bring music to thousands of underserved children each year, both here and abroad.

Midori Photo by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

Discounts are available to Americans for the Arts convention attendees for Midori’s performance on this evening at the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. Call 206.215.4747 and use promo code 7514 for 15% off main floor tickets or visit their website.

 

Knitting & Networking, Craft & Conversation
Friday, June 19, 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Renaissance Hotel, Visions Room

Crafting circles can be a powerful medium for community dialogue and building social capital. Bring your knitting, crochet, or other needlecraft and join other knitters and crocheters from the field for conversation and networking. Local artist Mandy Greer, a fabric sculptor and costumer, will join us to talk about a new project that connects crochet and dialogue to water quality. All are welcome!

Emerging Leaders Reception
Friday, June 19, 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Sponsored by the Master of Arts in Arts Administration Program at Goucher College
Grey Gallery & Lounge
1512 11th Avenue

Come one, Come All to help us celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Americans for the Arts Emerging Leaders program.  Mix and mingle at Grey Gallery & Lounge, a space that supports and exhibits the work of exceptional local, regional, and national emerging artists.  Grey Gallery & Lounge offers a unique and compelling atmosphere to appreciate art, leisure, and the exchange of ideas.  Appetizers will be abundant, beverages will flow at the cash bar, and networking with old friends and new colleagues will be optimal. 

Grey Gallery & Lounge is approximately 20 minutes walking distance from the hotel. Special thanks to Grey Gallery & Lounge for its generous donation for this reception.

Public Art Network Reception
Friday, June 19, 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
ACT (A Contemporary Theater)

Join public art professionals for this casual networking and socializing opportunity. The evening’s program will include a celebration of 20 years of Public Art Review, remarks, and screening of short art films.

ACT is located at 700 Union Street, next door to Sheraton Seattle and the Washington State Convention & Trade Center. Special thanks to the Seattle Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs, ACT, PublicEarth, 4Culture, Sound Transit, Washington State Arts Commission, FORECAST Public Artworks, and the generous contributions of numerous artists.

After Words Lounge
Friday, June 19, 10:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.
Renaissance Hotel, Visions Lounge/Visions Room

Meet your colleagues at the After Words Lounge to close out Friday evening with late-night revelry. Bring your musical instrument and jam with old and new friends in the Visions Room. Walk across the hall to Visions Lounge to relax and network with colleagues while taking advantage of the cash bar. One drink ticket per person will be provided. In a continuing tradition, the artist’s laptop social will also be held in the Visions Lounge. Bring your laptop and casually show and share your work with others.