4.3. SR 01-19-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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(. . . ArfSoup Elk River Area Community Arts Festival ArtSoup Origins The 2001 Arts Alliance, individuals and organizations within the region of Rogers, Otsego, Elk River, and Zimmerman are collaborating to create the "ArtSoup" Elk River Area Community Arts Festival. ArtSoup is a celebration of the arts in our community. The name "ArtSoup" conveys that the "coming together" creates something that can be even better than the individual ingredient. The name was also chosen to convey our intention to produce an event that is lighthearted and fun. At the same time, we are planning to accomplish significant and meaningful outcomes that will positively affect our community. ArtSoup is a means to bring our community together to enjoy and understand the importance of the arts in our daily lives. In 1997, the Elk River Citizens' League completed a two-year study about the arts in the Elk River area. In their 46 page comprehensive report, the Citizens' League identified the Elk River Area as a community with above average arts resources needing stronger ties and leadership in the arts. Fund raising for the arts has been at a minimum because of the lack of coordination and collaboration of the various entities, including the schools and the public sector. Among other findings, the report stated that the Elk River area has inadequate visual and performing arts facilities. At the same time, the Search Institute conducted a study of the Elk River area community, identifying assets that are critical to healthy youth. The arts were specifically identified as a highly important factor in helping youth grow to be healthy and productive individuals. Clearly, steps needed to be taken to tap the enormous reservoir the arts provide to our youth, as well as the rest of our community. In September of 1997, the 2001 Committee, Inc. hosted their eighth community conference, featuring the arts as their focus community issue. Over 100 community leaders attended a day which began with the keynote speaker, Joan Mondale, and continued in an immersion in the arts. A panel of people from communities who became economically successful through the arts was a highlight for business leaders. All enjoyed the original music, drama, and visual arts that were part of that day. Out of that experience and the excitement and energy it created, came the 2001 Arts Alliance. Taking the outcomes of group discussions about the future of our communities through the arts, the Arts Alliance decided to use an arts festival to bring audiences together, to network artists, and to demonstrate what we learned would benefit our community through the arts. Community Support for ArtSoup We decided that our festival should include all areas of the arts. As we began planning ArtSoup, established arts groups willingly joined in. During festival week, the high school vocal music program is planning a community concert. The high school drama club is collaborating with community adults to -5-