Henri Rousseau once said, "The world of reality has its limits; the world of imagination is boundless."
We believe in the powerful role that art plays in our society. Art boosts economies and builds bridges between individuals and communities. Art has the power to give a voice to those who feel unheard. It is a language in and of itself that expresses feelings and observations about our very existence. Our world has witnessed incredible advances because of people who were visionaries, creative thinkers, dreamers and inventors.
We all feel the ramifications of a nation in economic hardship. It has made support for the arts difficult, but it has also made those involved in the Festival of the Arts so special. The generous support we have received from the City of Big Rapids, the Downtown Business Association, Downtown Development Authority, Artworks, area businesses, residents, artists, and Ferris State University is a testament to a deeper understanding of what it takes for a community to thrive.
We are most grateful for the hard work and dedication of the Festival of the Arts executive board: Scott Cohen, Jerena Keys, Steve Sobers and Trinidy Williams, and especially immediate past chair Bruce Dilg, for his vision and leadership in bringing the Festival of the Arts back to the Big Rapids community. We also give many thanks to Bill Donahue and Mark Gifford for their past service as members of the board and their continued support and encouragement.
It is our hope that the Festival will provide opportunities for you to try something new, to be entertained, uplifted and engaged, and most importantly for you to be inspired to welcome creativity into your life. Once the imagination is activated, opportunities are boundless.
Carrie Weis
Ed Mallett
Co-chairs, Festival of the Arts
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