06/06/2026
Reppin' Press Play in New Mexico (opening background artwork by Heidi K. Brandow) - I spent the last four days surrounded by artists and arts advocates, educators, administrators, and leaders from across the country at AFTACON, the annual convening of Americans for the Arts
The conversations centered on the role of the arts in our communities, the challenges and opportunities facing arts and culture, and the importance of building connections across disciplines, institutions, and regions. I left inspired by the people I met, energized by new ideas (with support for some 'old' ones!), and reminded that the work happening in Salem is part of a much larger movement.
Now it's time to bring some of that inspiration home. Big ideas are great, but local action is where change begins. What are your ideas to help make Salem’s arts and culture stronger?
