Creative Expo
Inspiration. To create a large scale event, providing a positive sum game with a quality presentation opportunity for artists and a dynamic range of works for the public to enjoy. To host exhibits across genres with space for artists to develop an environment in which to display their pieces. To launch TheFieldCreative concept, out to the public and foster the arts, diversity and creative thinking for our long-term future.
Communication. The concept was proposed to the team and brainstormed; it was decided to host both the Creative Expo and the Original Music Festival on the same day, a morning event and an evening event on August 27th, 2005. Teams were formed to facilitate each event, inviting artists later ensued.
Collaboration. Key activities were identified and one or more people took on each task, including; Event Key Coordinator, Communications Coordinator, Creative Liaison, Finance Coordinator, and General Coordination Supporters. Over two months, the space was booked, artists found, marketing ensued, cresting with much external support on the day with setup and close.
Massive thanks to the whole team! Especially Janelle, Jo, Nikki, Andy, Kali, Steph, Vince & Lex. who went beyond the call of duty and made the probably overambitious combo of hosting the Creative Expo in the day and then Original Music Fest that night a success.
Creation. The large location was ideal to cater for the 30 exhibits, setup began from 7am with volunteers assisting the exhibitors. The MC introduced the artists between sets from the jazz band. Exhibits included paintings, sculpture, music, documentary, pottery, digital art, interactive exhibits and more. The artists sold works and mingled with counterparts from throughout the region.
Exhibition. The Creative Expo spoke for itself, the artists, musicians and public got a taste of what is possible with collaboration. Beyond that, this report, the photos, and video demonstrate what happened and how. Through such exhibition it becomes easier for others to envision and create other not-for-profit services and events in their regions.
Repeat. The 2005 Creative Expo was the first time a large scale art exhibition had been held at Massey University Albany. In 2006 the Albany Students Association Inc. repeated the Creative Expo with their own finance and team. Thus TheFieldCreative initiated a not-for-profit service, with exponentiality- effect beyond the initial effort.
Seeing as I was not organising it in 2006, figured as no risk of self promotion i’d exhibit also!
