Creator Five: Kelley Gibson
Image courtesy of the Cultural Alliance of York County
Creatives and related nonprofit organizations thrive with community support, and a significant portion have probably been touched (directly or indirectly) by the financial or human resources flowing from or through the Cultural Alliance of York County. The organization has helped to provide over $12.2 million to arts groups and creatives since its founding in 1999.
As the President of the Cultural Alliance, Kelley Gibson has overseen the aid and growth that funding brings along to the arts community, which then flows to the greater community. In her role, she advocates and writes on behalf of the arts, and as she notes, what some would also say is "deal-making."
Let's see what we can find out about this deal maker in a Creator Five.
1) Now that we have insight into Gibson's work, we may have some ideas about her responsibilities and understandably she sees much of her accomplishments midday. "I get most of my deep work done between 9 am-1 pm. The rush of the morning getting kids out is over, and the rush of afternoon return has not yet begun."
If she needs a mental boost, she'll pick up an amulet created by artist Donna Sylvester, "an amazing creative force and friend. She reminds me that the world can look totally different, and destruction is another form of evolution... I find myself picking it up often when I need a little good juju."
When not working, a favorite day trip is to the 3.8-mile trail loop at Kellys Run Nature Preserve near Holtwood, Pennsylvania. "It's a really challenging hike that's going to get you up mountains and sloshing through water. You have to have your wits about you — the trail is really easy to lose if you don't pay attention. But the views are spectacular, and cell phone service doesn't work, so you have no choice but to unplug."
2) In addition to Sylvester, as noted above, Gibson is also creatively influenced by Justin Ayala. "He creates magic anywhere, out of what feels like nothing — he's a mad scientist/MacGyver of sights and sounds."
In the written word, she'll recommend "Making Your Life as an Artist," in which Andrew Simonet considers how an artist can live a balanced life in a challenging profession.
3) Regarding personal advice, Kelley brings up family words of wisdom. "My mother, when seeing my awkwardness in wearing a dress I wasn't totally comfortable in, wisely told me, 'If you are gonna wear it, you better own it.' It has helped me remember to authentically own what I put into the world."
4) On a lighter note, the New Jersey native still enjoys a pork roll sandwich with egg and cheese when away from such work challenges. For dessert, coffee ice cream hits the spot, or perhaps "generic store brand ice cream sandwiches — the rectangular ones in white paper. I could eat a box if left alone with them."
5) We won’t run away from this insider look at Kelley Gibson, but we will end by noting her choice for a walk-on song…