Day: October 28, 2020

California and New York had the biggest upticks in people looking to move out of state since last year, followed by Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and Illinois, according to a new report from Redfin. pic.twitter.com/mU5RoxGJ6k

— Only In Boston (@OnlyInBOS) October 28, 2020

End of the day….

Art video program showcases in depth artists stories direct from their studios

In the early spring of 2020 lockdown set in, the leadership of 1623 studios sought to find a way to support the arts remotely through their local TV and online footprint.  What evolved was a unique member show called Cape Ann ARTWaves co-produced and hosted by Jacqueline Ganim-DeFalco and M. Kristine Fisher.  The show was launched in April and in its first episode took a snapshot of seARTS and Rocky Neck to understand how they pivoted to respond to their communities.   From that point onward, the show has tapped into 22 other artists from all strata of the arts community.  

For centuries, artists have been at the crossroads of major historic events.  The 2020 Pandemic has been, by far, the greatest such event in the lives of many of us and it’s important to capture the response of the arts community during this time.  Cape Ann ARTWaves provides a vehicle to have this dialogue in a conversational, informal setting, direct from the artists’ homes and studios.  The co-producers are well-acquainted with many artists and their interviews are intended to go deep with an informed point of view and at the same time make it easy and fun for the artists to tell their story. 

“Through seARTS and the Wearable Art programs, I have spent twenty years working with artists and have also been on my own artistic journey during this time.   Most of us are highly motivated by the anticipation of an exhibit or event.  Losing these opportunities left a huge gap in the arts ecosystem.  However, for many it’s been a wonderful time to re-charge and reflect and this is coming to light in our interviews,” comments co-producer, Jacqueline Ganim-DeFalco

“Anticipating the interview gave me purpose, something artists have difficulty with during the pandemic. All my art shows were abruptly cancelled. Exposure is key. Since my ARTWaves interview and connection with Local Colors, I’ve sold 4 paintings!” Painter, Joan Bediz

Co-producer, M. Kristine Fisher brings her rich background to the show.

“As a working artist and former executive director of the Marblehead Arts Association, I have a unique understanding into the complexities that go into keeping my art practice and the greater creative economy alive during these unprecedented times. Each interview offers insight into artists’ journeys, inspirations, and important gallery activity. This exposure is critical for the creative community who count on media exposure more than ever to share and sell their work.” 

To date, Cape Ann ARTWaves has featured artists covering the genres of painting, photography, ceramics, mosaics, jewelry, glass, the experimental arts the majority are working from Cape Ann or with a close connection through their exhibitions or personal history.  Their memberships cross over many of the local art associations including Rocky Neck, North Shore, Rockport, seARTS, the Cape Ann Artisans, and some are in the permanent collection of the Cape Ann Museum.  Among the more well-known artists, the hosts have interviewed Jeff Weaver, Chris Williams, Linda Holt, Nella Lush, and Ruth Mordecai.  Many, however, are slightly under the radar and this presents a unique opportunity to tell their stories. 

“It has always been my strong belief that media exposure is not only beneficial but essential. I have added the interview on the foot of my emails and of course on all of my websites. Since my interview I have received numerous emails from new potential collectors. We must always find ways and venues that promote awareness of how important Art is for our communities and Life!”  Nella Lush, Artist & Founder of the Rockport Art Association Experimental Arts initiative

Cape Ann ARTWaves is off to a great start and both artists and the arts community are eager for the show to continue with a long list of stories to share with the community.  To continue, however, the show will require sponsorship for its 24 Episodes in 2021. The producers are actively looking for support for the local community for the show to continue and grow.   Supporting facts are available in the attached profile.  

About the Producers:

Jacqueline Ganim-DeFalco and M. Kristine Fisher are champions of the arts community on Cape Ann and beyond.  Jacqueline and Kristine have both served on the Board of seARTS and have led arts programming and promotion for over twenty years.  To find out more about Jacqueline Ganim-DeFalco, please reference her websites: capeanndesigns.com and more on M. Kristine Fisher at KristineFisher.com. 

About 1623 Studios: 1623 Studios is a nonprofit community media center serving the four communities of Cape Ann: Gloucester, Rockport, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Essex. Its mission is to provide a forum for the free exchange of information and ideas. It strives to be a vital information resource for the Cape Ann Community and to make sure that it is always evolving to meet the needs of the community.

Find the latest 1623 Studios content on YouTube and connect across social media at “@1623Studios” including on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. 1623 Studios broadcasts its programming on local Comcast cable channels 12, 20, and 67.

Time is running out to vote early at City Hall. I’ve been helping by checking people into the building and have been meeting many early voters. I’m also meeting those whose names I recognize as blog followers, so I have especially enjoyed that. Early voting continues until Friday Oct 30 and is available during City Hall hours: Today Wednesday Oct 28 8:30 am -4 pm; Thursday Oct 29 8:30 am – 6:30 pm and ( last day) Friday Oct 30 8:30 am – 12:30pm* note 12:30 closing on Friday. More info available here. You can return absentee ballots, vote in person at your polling place on Tuesday Nov 3 or vote early at City Hall until Friday. Just vote.

Special thanks to Pauline’s for the flag pin and to the Generous Gardeners/ Maggie Rosa for the flowers.