ArtServe Launches Monthly Changemaker Circle Series

Changemaker CircleArtServe is proud to announce the launch of its Changemaker Circle, a new monthly networking and strategic planning series for artists, entrepreneurs, creative professionals, service leaders and changemakers who are interested in making a positive and powerful difference in the community through the arts.

The inaugural session of the Changemaker Circle takes place on Friday, May 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Future events take place at 6:30 p.m. on the third Friday of every month until the end of the year. Those dates are June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15 and December 20.

“As a creative laboratory, ArtServe’s goal is to build an inclusive network of creatives, entrepreneurs, business leaders, social service professionals and forward-thinkers interested in co-creating experimental, innovative project work designed to generate positive outcomes for our community through the arts,” said ArtServe Executive Director Craig W. Johnson. “In a creative and collaborative forum, our participants’ ideas, skills and connections will be the foundation from which such projects emerge.”

Participants of the Changemaker Circle should have a deep interest in using the arts to impact areas of equity, public education, health and human services and/or social change. Initially, the series will be moderated by Johnson with the ultimate goal of cultivating sub-groups of like-minded peers who will lead their own initiatives.

In collaboration with each project group, ArtServe will utilize its expertise and experience to secure funding and resources to allow projects to take shape. From research and development to production and implementation, ArtServe will endorse projects that benefit the community and align with its mission of supporting creative professionals and fostering social change.

“In addition to closing opportunity gaps in our community, we want our Changemaker Circle participants to succeed personally and professionally,” Johnson added. “Our collective goal is to ensure that our participants are recognized for their contributions and earn appropriate rewards for their efforts.”

To join the first session of the Changemaker Circle, RSVP by emailing CraigWJ@artserve.org. In accordance with its goal of building a forward-thinking community, there will be a potluck for participants interested in bringing items for their peers.

For more information about the Changemaker Circle and potluck sign-up, visit artserve.org/changemaker-circle.

About ArtServe, Inc.

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization born out of a missive established by the Broward Cultural Division in 1988, ArtServe, Inc. became one of six of the nation’s first arts incubators. Designed to provide emerging and seasoned artists the space, education and resources to create new work, build audiences and cultivate self-sustaining business models, ArtServe supports 2,300 artists each year. Also providing professional-development, marketing and technology support for Broward County cultural organizations, the organization is directly responsible for amplifying the County’s cultural vibrancy and strengthening the local economy through the arts. With direct service to the community, ArtServe offers public performances, workshops, community classes in the arts, gallery exhibits and customized, immersive arts experiences for corporations and communities alike. In 2019, the organization is redoubling its commitment to diversity and inclusion, and increasing its focus on the presentation of creative works by artists that promote global wellness, social change and advocacy for special populations. ArtServe is supported in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council, the State of Florida, the Department of State and the Division of Cultural Affairs. Entry to the organization’s ongoing public exhibits is free, and all are welcome. To learn more about upcoming events, please visit www.artserve.org or call (954) 462-8190.