Abstract
The historic University of the Arts in Philadelphia, once the “only University in the US dedicated to the study of the fine and performing arts,” abruptly announced its closure on June 7th. The alumni rallied and protested to no avail. A dedicated group of alumni gathered to lend their support through advocacy and support by establishing a non-profit organization to raise funds in order to continue support to those left in the lurch. While many still mourn the loss of this establishment, our aims are to remain a resource and gathering point for those who attended this art school in hopes of maintaining Center City Philadelphia as an arts stronghold and to perpetuate the groundbreaking and risk-taking artists who were drawn there. This session shares our successes, challenges, and initiatives that will fulfill the legacy of the arts in our city and champion artistic expression and support in the face of a vacuum that this scandal has created in our lives and the lives of those living in one of the most artistically progressive cities in the states. Our work may serve as a model for alumni and citizens alike to realize and engage in the support necessary to maintain artistic life in the 21st century.
Presenters
David D. TimonyChair and Professor, Business, Arts, and Sciences / Education, Delaware Valley University, Pennsylvania, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
The Arts in Social, Political, and Community Life
KEYWORDS
University, Urban Living, Alumni, Closure, Scandal, Fundraising, Partnerships
