Artistic Empowerment: Ariel Davis on Diversity, Inclusion & Expression

Tune in and be inspired by 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by the engaging Rob Lee. Together with our guest today, Ariel Davis, co-founder of The Arts Administrators of Color Network, engages in a dynamic conversation with host Rob Lee on The Truth In This Art. Ariel, a Maryland-based cultural organizer and communications expert, brings her expertise in supporting diverse cultural expressions in communities to the forefront. Co-chair of the board of The Arts Administrators of Color Network, Ariel's impact reverberates through her work with organizations like Save the Music Foundation, The Lewis Prize for Music, and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. With a French Horn player's roots and a Howard University alumna, Ariel's journey reflects her passion for cultural enrichment and community development.

About The Arts Administrators of Color Network

The Arts Administrators of Color Network (AAC) is a 501(c)3 service organization founded in July 2016. The network provides a platform for arts administrators and artists of color to voice their experiences and collaborate towards equity in the arts. With over 25 events held since 2016, AAC has connected and expanded BIPOC leadership across the US creative sector, serving over 1,000 arts leaders in DC/Maryland/Virginia and over 200 nationally. The network's vision is an anti-racist, anti-oppression, human-centered creative sector with cultural institutions led by People of the Global Majority. AAC is made possible through donations.

In this feature, we unravel:

• Ariel Davis' advocacy for diversity and inclusion, shaping the landscape of arts administration and cultural expression.
• The impactful role of The Arts Administrators of Color Network in fostering support and opportunities for arts leaders from diverse backgrounds.
• Ariel's inspiring message to aspiring arts administrators and artists, urging them to embrace fearlessness and find their supportive community.

Ariel shares her background and experiences in the arts. Growing up in Detroit, she had influential band directors who encouraged her to pursue music. However, when she moved to the East Coast for college, she noticed the lack of diversity in the classical music world. This led her to question the selection process and representation in the arts. Ariel discusses the importance of diversity and inclusion in arts administration and cultural expression. She highlights the work of the Arts Administrators of Color Network in providing support and opportunities for arts leaders of diverse backgrounds. Ariel also shares her advice for aspiring arts administrators and artists, emphasizing the importance of being fearless and finding your tribe.

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The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). 

Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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