'Beyond' Is Going Beyond

We Create Here was an initiative within the Gazette Company to develop evolving narratives and authentic conversations throughout Iowa's Creative Corridor. read more

As soon as we hit send on the invites, RSVPs came rolling in. As predicted when we first introduced the idea, people from all walks of life are jazzed to talk about Mr. Grant Wood. We were also moved to see representatives from The Gazette attend, including Todd Dorman who wrote on his experience and hopes for what's to follow. The point of impact and the ideas that followed have already surpassed the hopes for the whole project. While we still have one more chat to go, this exploration already feels like a success. Here's why.

1.  Corridor Wide and Then Some. Our invitation list included 20 people for each day, and we had at least 17  show up for each conversation. Yes we had a handful of the usual suspects but wow--did we get some great perspective from various parts of the corridor and the state. Representatives from Eldin, Davenport, Anamosa, Clear Lake....all having various connections/encounters with the man at various stages of life.

2. Sincere Interest.  Not only were the facilitators psyched to see  such a variety of attendees, but they seemed genuinely happy to be amongst each other. Our usual ice breaker of "what brought you here today?" revealed a true desire to contribute whatever possible to give Wood the kudos he deserves. Attendees spoke of their own connections to Wood yet continued to ask about perspective and opportunities to collaborate with fellow enthusiasts. Within a few minutes of conversation, our group chats identified four areas of Wood engagement we intend to unpack:  Education, Creativity, Community, Entrepreneurialism

3. Going, Going....Beyond.   I have to admit, I'm surprised at the little amount of time we talked about his works. Yes, that's the message we tried to convey as we invited guests to the chat,  but my expectation walking in was that somehow, we'd round back to his go to notes of achievement and it might be a challenge to get back on track. The interest in nearly all of the attendees, even those who are directly responsible for promoting his works, was about the legacy so few take the time to recognize yet had substantial influence on the region we benefit in today. The man as an early adopter, a mentor, a supporter of next generations in artistic talent and beyond is one that has many layers and we're all eager to reveal in celebration and authentic narration.

Care to join us? Our third community conversation is scheduled for December 3rd, 9AM-10AM at Five Turner Alley. Email Quinn Pettifer (Quinn.pettifer@thegazettecompany.com) to register.