The Arts Experience
by Mike Anderson, photos by Steven Hertzog
Past, Present & Future Lawrence has been an arts hub in the Midwest for many years, but in the uncertain world today, it needs the support of the community, civic leaders, and government to thrive. The arts make up a significant portion of the identity of Lawrence, a city world-renowned artists call home. This city houses citizens on the “Time Magazine” The Most Influential People lists. It welcomes Oscar winners, internationally touring musical groups and producers. Langston Hughes, William S. Burroughs, and countless other artists have stayed here. The arts are not only what make Lawrence unique, they help support the economy. “We want to make sure the business of art is seen as part of the economy of Lawrence,” former Lawrence 44
Arts Center (LAC) CEO Susan Tate says. “The creative economy is an important part. Arts jobs are real jobs.” To help celebrate the arts, Lawrence Business Magazine asked a panel of Lawrence artists to help highlight some of the most memorable arts events of the last 10 years. The following artists contributed to this list: Stan Herd, worldrenowned artist; Vanessa Thomas, critically acclaimed vocalist; John Sebelius, perennial Best of Lawrence artist winner; Susan Tate, former CEO of the Lawrence Arts Center; Margaret Weisbrod Morris, current CEO of the Lawrence Arts Center; Derek Kwan, executive director of the Lied Center; Mary Doveton, executive director of Theatre Lawrence; Jon Niccum, movie producer and film critic; Stephen T. Johnson, world-renowned artist.
