arts & business council

MetLife Foundation National Arts Forums Series

Iowa Arts Council
Des Moines, Iowa

Leadership: New Frameworks for the Changing Face of America
06/10/2008

Moderator: Rehka Basu, Des Moines Register Cultural Columnist

Panelists:
• J. Barry Griswell, Chairman, Principal Financial Group
• Jeff Chelesvig, President and C.E.O., Civic Center of Greater Des Moines
• Savan Thongvanh, President, Des Moines Arts Center’s Art Noir Group

The goal of this forum was to discuss ways in which Des Moines can take steps to becoming a RenGen city.  In the recent past, Des Moines has made steps to become one of the top cities to live in as well as a very popular cultural tourist destination. The city benefits from having a supportive community, affordable housing, a powerful infrastructure, and a growing arts scene. As discussed in Patricia Martin's book and presentation, the nation is on the brink of a cultural rebirth; Des Moines must stay focused on the future, be ready to take on changes, and be willing to take exciting risks.

Following Patricia Martin’s presentation on the Renaissance Generation, Rehka Basu led a discussion between panelists and the audience based on Ms. Martin’s theories and observations. It is recognized that past collaborations between the corporate and art worlds have been very successful in Des Moines. However, an overarching strategy for collaborations should begin to be considered. There needs to be a stronger link between all arts and business organizations, not just the few most prominent.

Smaller arts organizations and individual artists will be a very important catalyst for change in the coming years. These arts organizations must look for creative collaborations to actively work towards Des Moines becoming a RenGen city. Mr Chelesvig, President and CEO of Civic Center of Greater Des Moines, noted that Ms. Martin’s presentation made him reflect on the fact that the community often focuses on only select large-scale, high-profile arts organizations and events. However, there are many deserving small organizations or individual artists that will be key to the renaissance. It is important that larger organizations find meaningful ways to work with smaller scale institutions.

The visitor’s perception of Des Moines is of a vital, culturally enriched city. However, long-time residents need to be courted by the cultural offerings. Residents continue to have a misconception as to what Des Moines offers in the way of entertainment, cultural opportunities, and accessibility.

After the Forum, approximately 30 participants continued discussion over lunch. As a result of the discussion, a steering committee has begun formulating a volunteer structure which will pair small arts organizations with volunteer business and marketing professionals for an expertise exchange. Within this exchange, business will assist in the business, marketing, and sponsorship plans for artists. Artists will help business and marketing professionals with events, promotions, marketing planning, and creative decision making.