The arts are a broad sector of culture that plays a significant role in everyday life. They are an intricate part of society, establishing a distinctive connection among individuals of diverse status, race, religion, gender, and so forth. Art is one agency that rids itself of discrimination by bringing different people together through a shared passion, idea, or experience. Whether it involves listening to a musician at a local bar or simply acknowledging a painting, everyone is involved with art in one form or another. This concept is one stimulating aspect of art. The fact that one does not have to create art in order to appreciate it shows the vast possibilities and ideas that can form as a result of art appreciation and interactivity.
The Arts Gang stems from this unique creative power. The project comes from a desire to see the arts grow in a town that stores an overwhelming amount of potential. The problem comes from a lack of appreciation for what Tuscaloosa holds. The idea first came to mind back in August of 2011 when I noticed the absence of a prominent arts community. There are countless artists present; however, they fail to receive the exposure and appreciation they deserve. Many of these artists feel a sense of “disconnect” from the general community, and in order for any society to flourish, it must establish a link among its inclusive members. Without correlation, the society will fail to grow due to the community’s inability to function properly in accordance with one another.
Back in October of 2011, a number of interviews were conducted with different Tuscaloosa artists. Each one expressed a desire for change. Each one has hopes of making an impact, but without support from their community, they feel as though that change will never come. What they all agreed on was the need for an outlet that will motivate each artist to come together with intentions of making that change happen.
Therefore, The Arts Gang isn’t a result of a single individual. It’s a collective drive, a collective passion, a collective movement set forth by the Tuscaloosa arts community. All it took was one push to get it started.
What makes this project different from others is the fact that it’s not just a means of exposure for Tuscaloosa artists. This project is designed to build a strong, powerful connection among the arts community which will ultimately raise the arts level of prominence within the general community. It’s a place where artists come together with hopes of making a difference.
Yet The Gang isn’t just about the artists. It’s about each and every individual within the Tuscaloosa community. Without support, the project will never reach its true potential, so do your part. Help make this project a success by joining The Arts Gang on this exciting journey by supporting and motivating us every step of the way.