FLORENCE – The University of North Alabama’s School of the Arts will have its conference – Ignite. Inspire. Educate. Engage, or I2E2 – on Friday, Sept. 20. The event is focused on promoting access to the arts and arts education.
Dr. Terrance Brown
“There needs to be a real conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts,” said Dr. Terrance Brown, Executive Director of the School of the Arts. “No one should be held back from practicing any kind of artistic discipline because they can’t afford it, the color of their skin, or become they come from a background that doesn’t support it. Some are not given the opportunity to participate in the arts.”
The I2E2 event will include 10 presenters; four performances; three workshops, one of which is bring led by notable educator and co-founder of Shift Design Camp, Owen Foster; and a panel discussion. There is also an opportunity for ticket holders to join Emmy award-wining poet and keynote speaker Ed Mabry for dinner and a brainstorming session on diversity and inclusivity in the arts.
Owen Foster
“We have to talk about the future of the arts because where we are right now is very exclusive, and it’s not inclusive, accessible, or diverse,” said Monica Collier, one of the event organizers.
Tickets for the I2E2 conference are $35 for adults and $10 for students. There are a limited number of $20 tickets for participants attending only the reception and performance by Ed Mabry. Registration is open and will be available until 8:30 a.m. on Sept. 20. For registration and presenter information, visit https://www.una.edu/schoolofthearts/i2e2–conference/index.html.
To learn more about the vision of I2E2 and to hear candid conversations with the faculty and staff who helped organize the event, , listen to the SOTA Pop podcast at https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb–w6xcx–afd1cb.
Media Release/Michelle Eubanks
Interim Associate Director
University Communications & Marketing/UNA
