The Resource Partners Initiative is an initiative created by ArtsConnect in 2020. Currently, the ArtsConnect Resource Partners include Sunrise Theatre Company, Speak Easy Poets, Visual Artists of Topeka and the Aaron Douglas Art Fair.
This initiative supports artistic collaboration, the creation of new works of art, resource sharing and technical support to 2-4 organizations* and/or artists working in different artistic disciplines at any given time. If you are interested in participating in this program, please contact us.
Selected organizations (“Resource Partners”) will not only have access to resources and support from ArtsConnect but also will be able to connect with one another in order to leverage expertise, strengthen partnerships and engage in a multidisciplinary collaboration with other arts organizations and artists in Topeka as they create new works of art and raise the bar for the arts in Topeka.
*Any group or individual effort to create new works of art and/or support the creative sector in Topeka will be considered for participation in the Resource Partners Initiative.
Resource Partners will be artists or arts programs that:
Are in need of dependable, accessible space to hold workshops and activities that are not necessarily open to the public.
Provide an opportunity to develop new works, get feedback from peers.
Would benefit from the utilization of technology and equipment that is available on site.
Are focused on building connections between established and emerging creatives, and
Intend to continue regular operations in the foreseeable future (i.e. not a “one-time” event).
Frequently, we have heard that opportunities for artistic activities are hindered by a lack of affordable and appropriate space in which to meet, perform and network with their peers. This is especially true for performing and literary artists. Based on conversations with Topeka artists as well as reviewing grant applications submitted through the TopArts Grant Program, we know that many innovative and unique programs devote considerable resources to locating affordable and appropriate space to gather. Often, impactful and important programs are forced to close due to lack of space. Now in the face of COVID-19, this same principles apply for the skills and resources required to operated in a virtual environment.
The ArtsConnect Resource Partners Initiative seeks to accomplish the following goals.
Support the creative sector & artists in Topeka.
Expand the quantity and quality of cross-disciplinary arts experiences.
Offer resources and technical support to strengthen artistic efforts in Topeka.
Create new and powerful collaborations across artistic disciplines.
RESOURCE PARTNERS
2021-2023
Aaron Douglas Art Fair
American Regional Theatre Society, Inc.
Tina Brackman, Artist
Aisha Imani, Artist
Leading Ladies Cabaret
Sunrise Theatre Company
Speak Easy Poets
Visual Artists of Topeka
Washburn University Art Dept.
WiFi Film Festival
