Building Useful Networks

[Zhaleh Almaee]

The field of arts and social change, which applied improv can be considered part of in my humble opinion, is an organized but under-represented field --especially in the realm of funding or public awareness. It doesn't matter if your main interest is only in participating, but if you are trying to fundraise, publicize events or simply have a public presence then it can be really challenging. Are we really as connected as we think we are? Networks like AIN are in no shortage, but are they aware of each other, collaborating, helping create infrastructure for their niche or the larger field? How can we put technology, research, funding, in place so there's a SHARED language or exchange? I have lot's of ideas, but am interested in learning what other people think about this topic. Ever Onward, Zhaleh www.ArtsRising.org

[Paul Levy]

I think there is a key idea that goes beyond "Networks" which is that of "Communities of practice". I think the word community goes beyond what a network is, suggesting, not just link up, but mutual support, learning and cooperation, even co-design and co-delivery, as well as experience sharing.

I wonder if it might be time to develop an online community of practice for art and social change which might be also a kind of "meta"-network.

warm wishes

Paul