May notes by TASI Executive Director, Greg Busceme Sr.
Each month is jammed with so many activities it is hard to tell you what is going on in any reasonable way. That being said, I decided to focus on the administrative aspect of the studio, in particular, the Board of Directors.
The studio has always held that our organization should reflect the diversity of our community. We are and have always been open to all people of all walks of life in our community. Our unifying focus is the Arts; it is the glue that holds our community together.
Before the pandemic we saw a vastly diverse crowd of people coming to the shows and events. What we haven’t seen is that diversity reflected in the studio’s Board of Directors that acts as our governing body. I find this very disturbing. First, that no one in our diverse communities feel they can contribute to the studio’s administrative body and second, that I feel very uncomfortable approaching a person based on their economics, ethnicity, or gender, and asking them to be on our board. I want everyone, everyone to find a place within the Art Studio as artists, patrons, board members or volunteers. If the community does not feel welcome, then what can we do to make it more welcoming? How can we bridge this gap and who can help us bridge it?
No group of artists needs to have a special show on special months when there are exhibition opportunities in which to participate that call for all artists to respond. Why is there a void of artists of color at our open exhibitions? What can we say or do to resolve that deficiency?
The Studio can only offer a place and a space for any artist to utilize. Any artist. When we meet an artist that is exactly what we see- an artist. All other qualities go by the wayside. Their work is the only thing we are concerned about and all subject matter, style and skill level is acceptable. We only want to encourage all artists to be as good as they can be and reach their highest potential. We want them to know we are there for them as artists.
This is probably the most awkward director’s note that I’ve ever written. Not only because of the subject matter but because I have to admit to the shortcoming of our lack of diversity. In times like these, The Art Studio, of all places needs to be keenly aware of its service to all communities and to be certain of our inclusivity in minority groups.