Warp & Weft

Our mission as an organization is to offer structure and support to the creation of art.

In the art of weaving, there is the ‘warp thread’ which holds the tension, allowing the ‘weft thread’ which creates the patter, color, shape and structure for the fabric being created. They do not work alone. The significance of their work is shared.

To take the analogy further, it takes a balance to create usable fabric that covers our skin and allows us to move safely in the world. To carry our treasures - to convey our personalities, to make us whole and human and unique.

If the arts are the weft, ArtsConnect works to be the warp. As we face an unprecedented time in all of our lives - a turning point that will change may parts of our society significantly for a very long time. As we look for stability and beauty - as we find ourselves in need of healing, understanding and faith - we will find the arts.

But, we should remember that the arts are resilient. Art will thrive in its power to bring us together, help us speak in a common language and heal us from this struggle. Plus, we shouldn't forget the fact that the arts are a critical part of our local economy - responsible for at least 480 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs in Topeka.

The arts give us joy and they give us inspiration. They lead us in understanding these difficult and uncertain times. They are the voices that sing our new songs, paint new murals, create new plays and poems. To make it through this time of challenge and uncertainty, we will need them like we need food and water. We must do everything that we can to support them now.

Until next time.