A passion for the arts virtually brought thousands of people together for National Arts Education Week. The joy found in connecting over creative ability shined as you all shared your art work, inspiration, and memories over the week. In addition to hearing your stories, I also interviewed Executive Director of the Alabama Arts Alliance, Donna Russell.
I'm excited to share more about our conversation and the projects that the Alabama Arts Alliance is working on in a future in depth issue story. Donna was happy to hear about the community we have fostered through social media. Sharing our stories is the most effective way to advocate for the arts. I have shared the data backing arts integration education and its service to students, but I haven't shared my childhood experiences with you. I took National Arts Education Week to do this!
SUNDAY FUNDAY: What is a fun memory that arts education gave you?
My favorite memory is twirling at the 2017 National Championship Game when Alabama beat Georgia with the iconic 2nd-and-26. The stadium was full of electric music, cheering fans, and teary eyes from my cistas and I as we endured this nail biting game. I became so close to my teammates over that season and this moment was an exhilarating way to end the year with them. After Alabama won and we played in the confetti, we had a dance party on the bus and then made our way to Good Morning America as the network covered the game. We were truly living the dream! Arts education has given me the performance and travel opportunities of a lifetime.
MUSIC MONDAY: When did you find your love for music?
Band was more than just playing instruments. For me, it was a safe haven of relief and encouragement that I needed to become who I am today. I started out in church and school plays, then transitioned to piano lessons by 3rd grade. I began twirling in the 4th grade and joined the band as a clarinetist in 6th to twirl in high school. The clarinet was not something I particularly liked at first, but I loved making new friends and bonding over literature and practice. I was a painfully shy kid that shuddered at the thought of talking to new people, but the more time I spent with band friends, the more I felt at ease with expressing myself, and my quirks!
TEACHER TUESDAY: Who is an art educator that impacted your life?
My senior year as a Crimsonette was the best thanks to @ttownhendersons 🤍 April coached us with positivity and grace, whether that be while writing (pulling our hair out) over drill, or with everyday problems. Without her I would’ve been in a negative mindset and had a difficult time with transitioning from undergrad to grad school. Thank you for keeping the show on the road, you deserve the world! I miss my cistas everyday!
WRITE IT UP WEDNESDAY: Who is your favorite artist?
Today I am featuring choreography from my favorite “writer,” @mrsmarionpowell, she was the Crimsonette choreographer for 40+ years and I had the incredible opportunity to learn under her. Mrs. Marion‘s choreography inspired me to always ask “why not,” while writing routines. This way of thinking has lead to fun, high energy performances for students and myself. Push yourself to learn something new every day to unlock your creative potential.
THANKFUL THURSDAY: Why are you thankful for the arts?
One thing I cherished as a Crimsonette and band student was performing with my friends. I’ll always remember locking eyes with teammates on the field and feeling our energies amplify. It was overwhelmingly special to see my best friends living their dreams and giving 100% everyday.
FACT FRIDAY: Check out “The 5 C’s of Arts in Education” for more facts
Here are just a few reasons why you should care about arts education. Not only is there improvement in student test scores, but also in social development!
CENTER STAGE SATURDAY: My social impact initiative
Arts education is vital to the success of a student’s overall academic achievement. Through Center Stage I promote the positive opportunities and learning skills that arts education programs provide to students.
The arts increase the health of civic engagement in the United States. The arts also challenge society with different points of view, compel us to empathize with others, and give us the opportunity to reflect on the human condition.
Studies show that students' test scores are 44 points higher than the average student, yet 70% of schools in Alabama DO NOT have any types of arts education programs. My purpose is to not only teach school systems how to establish programs and incorporate the arts into everyday activities, but to empower people to embrace their creativity to become better students, citizens, and employees as they enter adulthood.
Arts education has encouraged me to become confident in my intelligence and performance abilities, and now I am able to help students come out of their shells and shine!
Email me if you wish to partner with Center Stage!
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