Arts council plans projects for 2012

Sugar Loaf — The Orange County Arts Council is getting ready for 2012 with a member appreciation event, plans for new workshops, and calls for ideas. Membership Appreciation — Friday, Jan. 13, 6-8 p.m. at the Seligmann Studio, 23 White Oak Drive, Sugar Loaf. Snow date is Jan. 20. Free. Open to Arts Council members and their guests to recognize their involvement. Members are encouraged to bring nonmembers with them as an introduction to the Arts Council. Members will benefit from special discounts if their guests sign up as members that evening. 2012 Workshops and Networking Events — The council wants to to combine workshops and networking events with topics and issues beneficial to the community. Ideas for small workshops or informational sessions are welcome: email jen@ocartscouncil.org or call 469-9168. SPARK — January 2012, with place and date to be announced. Proposals will be accepted from anyone wishing to request funds for an arts-related project. Here's how it works: Proposals with brief descriptions (500 words or less) of the projects are distributed to attendees. Presenters have a few minutes to make their pitch. The attendees will then vote for their favorite project, and the one receiving the most votes wins the SPARK proceeds. Proposal presenters and voters pay $10 toward the SPARK fund, then network and socialize with food and refreshments. The number of people in attendance determines the amount of money awarded. Creative Conversations — Feb. 29, 6-8 p.m. at location to be announced. Creative Conversations are local gatherings of engaged citizens in communities across the country and are part of a grassroots movement to elevate the profile of arts in America. The night's topic is the "Impact of Sculpture on the Community." All are invited to attend. For more information call Jennifer D'Andrea at 469-9168, e-mail her at jen@ocartscouncil.org or visit www.ocartscouncil.org.