INDEPENDENT NEWS

Putting a "log over a corporate stream"

Published: Wed 30 Aug 2006 03:34 PM
What happens when you put a "log over a corporate stream? "
Melissa Fitt, promoter for Spark Studio, says "You get creativity and collaboration, you get spontaneity and you get diversity. More importantly, in this instance, you bring people with physical and intellectual impairments face to face with the corporate identity. You create a walkway for them both to travel on, and in doing so you create an interface for real exchange to occur. Cause-related marketing has more impact when you combine bold visuals and engaging communication and this event will do just that. Visitors will be inspired to contribute and to make connections !"
She goes on to say "People in business will leave with a new understanding of impairment and disability, which will foster a more intimate connection and be the impetus to make contributions both monetary and meaningful. Our keynote speakers will challenge the notion of disability and how we currently think, feel and react".
Spark Studio provides Art sessions for adults with serious intellectual and physical disabilities. Melissa says that "For many people an art session is one of the few means available for self-expression. Some artists are non-verbal and all are adults currently facing a range of barriers to access mainstream communication, buildings and services. Independence, Originality, Interesting, and Fun - this is how the Artists see their studio life. Given the organisation's effectiveness in fostering communication and encouraging artistic vocation the "Log over a corporate stream" is an appropriately named work donated by a professional artist for fundraising at the organisation's upcoming event."
What event is she talking about?
An event with a difference - a pilot speakers event "Creativity & Collaboration" aimed at corporates. A fast moving 90min seminar encouraging corporates to network with like-minded business/organisations, raising awareness and considering disability support from the angle of the future partnerships.
Keynote speakers include:
Philip Patston - Billy T Award winner "An introduction to :What the bleep do we know about disability and impairment";
Pat Armitstead - Joyologist, Humour Resources; "Creativity and first thought"
Minnie Baragwanath - well known TV presenter & Strategic Advisor Disability, Auckland City "Rings of Collaboration"...
and representatives from major funding bodies ASB Trusts, AUT and more.
This pilot precedes the Opening Night Celebrations and Art Auction for the organisation's annual fundraiser "Canvas for Expression". More than 50 artists with either intellectual or physical disability will display and offer their art for auction. Also available for special auction is the "Log over corporate stream" donated by internationally renowned NZ artist, Dean Buchanan. The celebrations include prizes and performance. A mixed ability circus performance by Circus Kumarani, and the evening will close with a participation event inviting all to explore "Living Rhythm" everyone will leave having had a colourful creative experience.
The aim of the night is FUN, celebration, fundraising.
See our website: www.sparkstudio.org.nz
ENDS

Next in Lifestyle

Malicious Melodrama - Todd Haynes’ ‘May December’
By: Howard Davis
The Austerity Of Quiet Despair - Wim Wenders’ ‘Perfect Days’
By: Howard Davis
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media