MICA Conference

Registration still open

Looking for some creative inspiration? How about learning about how we can create cultural equity for all Mainers, or leading from a place of making? These are just two samples of the many inspiring keynotes and sessions you’ll get at the Maine Arts Commission Maine International Conference on the Arts (MICA) October 6-7 in Lewiston/Auburn. Poet and advocate Crystal Williams will speak on “Practical Approaches to Creating Impact: Getting to Cultural Equity” Thursday night at 5:30 p.m., and Friday lunch keynote is “Stop Asking for Permission! Leading from a Place of Making (Things Happen)” by Sherry Wagner-Henry. Advance Registration closes September 30: go to mainearts.com/MICA to learn more and to register today!

MAINE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON THE ARTS (MICA)

Following the arts education conference on Thursday afternoon, October 6, the MICA officially opens at 4:00 pm with a reception at 4:30 pm, Franco Center, Lewiston. Following the reception Pam Breaux, CEO of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA) will provide a brief “State of the States”. Crystal Williams will be the opening keynote at 5:30 pm. Poet, essayist, and Bates College VP and Chief Diversity Officer Crystal’s keynote. Following the keynote in downtown Lewiston: cultural offerings including Downtown Lewiston Gallery Crawl, showcases at The Community Little Theater in Auburn, Franco-Fest at Bates College, Poetry Reading at the Lewiston Library, and more.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7

MICA opens on Friday morning with an Idea Lab – 5 artists presenting in a Pecha Kucha format. Included in the Idea Lab is Nancy Frolich who established an arts and literacy with a program she created called LEAPS of Imagination. During the day participants have choices between 20 sessions – 5 different strands with 4 sessions under each of these topics: Leveraging Investment, Visibility of the Arts & Culture Sector, Arts Education, Cultural Tourism, and Building Capacity. A general schedule is located at THIS LINK. A pdf and more schedule info is located at THIS LINK.

I hope to see you in Lewiston! If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to email me at argy.nestor@maine.gov.