FITCHBURG — Arts matter to everyone — that was just one of the messages put forward during the first Creative Network Summit sponsored by the Fitchburg Creative City Partnership, and headed by artist and organizer Derek Craig of Young Coff33. Held this weekend at Fitchburg Art Museum and the Fitchburg Senior Center, the Summit brought artists, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and creative professionals together and offered a packed itinerary of workshops, seminars, and networking. Tiffany Allecia, the executive director of Springfield Creative City Collective, provided a closing keynote address that prompted an enthusiastic response from attendees. “Creating pathways for underrepresented voices is something we all do,” said Allecia. “The conversations we have to have are not fun. Anytime I say ‘I work in dismantling systematic oppression.’ It didn’t take days – it took centuries to get us where we are today. And this gets us volatile reactions. But we are all inter-connected. What I do impacts your family and what you do impacts me and my family.” She continued, saying that community engagement is crucial. “As executives we’re always telling people how to make change. But those in leadership can’t do it alone – it has to be implemented by the greater community,” said Allecia. Mark Burnett, a retired Leominster firefighter who is also a sculptor attended both evenings. “I’m glad I came here. There are some fascinating ideas about partnership,” said Burnett.
“My studio is in a city-owned building that allows me to do that. It’s given me ideas to look into partnerships with the city.” His daughter, Tiana Burnett of Alignment Auntie, felt this was a start of something bigger. “This event is showing the initial steps in growing a sustainable creative economy,” said Tiana. “It’s bringing together players from Fitchburg, Leominster and beyond in a more connected way. I’m honored to be able to come here and share my workshops amongst all the others.” Panel topics brought people from a wide variety of regions. Next was “Economic and Cultural Development” panel with speakers from Mass Creatives, New Bedford Creative and a TDI Fellow from Attleboro. During “Performance Arts and Social Impact,” the theme of collaboration was emphasized. Jessie Olson, who also serves on the Boards of Barre Players and Stratton Players pointed out that many people who enjoy theatre “belong to different theatre groups – that’s resource sharing.” Francisco Ramos, Director of Community Organizing, NewVue observed: “The inclusivity was great – the regionalism. We have people from Lynn and Salem and Springfield. Organizer Derek Craig did a great job, we have the University and the Land Trust. It’s really great to hear good ideas and to have lots of work to follow up on.” Organizer Derek Craig was beaming throughout the day. “This has surpassed my wildest expectations. I can’t wait for the next one.”
CONTINUE READING
“My studio is in a city-owned building that allows me to do that. It’s given me ideas to look into partnerships with the city.” His daughter, Tiana Burnett of Alignment Auntie, felt this was a start of something bigger. “This event is showing the initial steps in growing a sustainable creative economy,” said Tiana. “It’s bringing together players from Fitchburg, Leominster and beyond in a more connected way. I’m honored to be able to come here and share my workshops amongst all the others.” Panel topics brought people from a wide variety of regions. Next was “Economic and Cultural Development” panel with speakers from Mass Creatives, New Bedford Creative and a TDI Fellow from Attleboro. During “Performance Arts and Social Impact,” the theme of collaboration was emphasized. Jessie Olson, who also serves on the Boards of Barre Players and Stratton Players pointed out that many people who enjoy theatre “belong to different theatre groups – that’s resource sharing.” Francisco Ramos, Director of Community Organizing, NewVue observed: “The inclusivity was great – the regionalism. We have people from Lynn and Salem and Springfield. Organizer Derek Craig did a great job, we have the University and the Land Trust. It’s really great to hear good ideas and to have lots of work to follow up on.” Organizer Derek Craig was beaming throughout the day. “This has surpassed my wildest expectations. I can’t wait for the next one.”
