Common Currents in the Cleveland Visual Arts Economy

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 12:30 – 2 pm

Midtown Collaboration Center

1974 E 66th St, Cleveland, OH 44103

The Artists Archives of the Western Reserve proudly presents Common Currents in the Cleveland Arts Economy, a roundtable discussion hosted by CAN’s Michael Gill, inclusive of Assembly for the Arts President and CEO, Jeremy Johnson, Hedge Gallery owner and artist Hillary Gent, and Jordan Wong, artist and past president of the Cleveland chapter of AIGA – the professional association for graphic designers.

Many discussions are taking place at the moment among various factions of the Cleveland visual arts community, about how we can boost our presence and make this arts economy work better for the visual artists involved in helping it grow and thrive. In order to enable artists to make a living here something needs to be done, but what? This is an attempt by the AAWR to begin a larger conversation and bring together some of these factions to generate ideas, and stimulate further, more inclusive discussions.

Each of these panelists have a common stake in our local Cleveland arts economy, yet each brings a unique, and important perspective. Jeremy Johnson represents the foundations and funders who provide grants and support directly to artists and arts institutions – a process that is political in its own way, but also in touch with artists. Hilary Gent is not only an artist, but also the owner of Hedge Gallery, a successful gallery located in the 78th Street Studios complex. Jordan Wong is a successful, professional artist who has made a career in Cleveland. The moderator for this discussion will be Michael Gill, Executive Director and Co-founder of the Collective Arts Network, and editor/publisher of CAN Journal.

This event will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 12:30 – 2 pm. at the Midtown Collaboration Center – 1974 E 66th St, Cleveland, OH 44103.

Tickets available via the Eventbrite link.

Tickets are free, but required for planning and attendance purposes.