Americans for the Arts 2008 convention will feature a track on the Arts and the Private sector, looking at trends and innovative programs and initiatives that highlight the growing role that the businesses, foundations and individuals are coming to play in the support and leadership of the nation’s arts organizations.

Americans for the Arts Annual Convention - Arts in the New Civic Life
Philadelphia, PA, June 20-22, 2008
Call for Session Proposals - Deadline: August 3, 2007

Philadelphia is the birthplace of American democracy, and today it is a leader in the evolution of civic life. From history to hip, the city is alive with creativity. Cultures abound in Philadelphia, an open and engaged metropolis that welcomes a diverse community of artists, innovators, and creators.

At this convention, Americans for the Arts will come together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first percent for art ordinance in the city that created it. We'll visit traditions in arts education that date back to the founding of the country and continue on the cutting edge. We'll also fast-forward to a new vision of civic leadership being crafted daily by the collaborative spirit of Philadelphia's artists, arts administrators, business innovators, and elected leaders.

Civic life is evolving in all of our communities and the arts are at the center.  In this year of democratic decision-making, more than 1,000 of your colleagues will gather to laugh, listen, learn, and lead in the place where it all began—and is happening again.  Proposing a session is your opportunity to share your strategies and secrets for the future of creative communities.

The proposal deadline is August 3, 2007.  More information and the electronic proposal form is available online.