In my town of San Antonio I've been watching and listening.
There are several things I've noticed; I've noticed some new visionaries. Visionaries who are using art as a tool of marketing.
The Summer 2006 Cactus Pear Music Festivals: classical performances from 19 world-class musicians throughout San Antonio and the Hill Country.
First, they admit it was inspired by a margarita named the "Cactus Pear." (Who hasn't had some of their best inspirations over a Margarita?)
Second, they've tied a simple and elegant art project to their kick-off. They've asked local artists to display their art on violins .... click "Curated Curves, The Art of the Violin."
The proceeds from the art auction (after it's been displayed in San Antonio and surrounding areas) will benefit their educational outreach programs.
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The newest old hotel in San Antonio is on the verge of a grand re-opening. It's described as iconic 60s glamour mixed with Latin style. It's the first hotel built on the San Antonio River. They've done the math and decided the old hotel has seen nearly 6 million suitcases ... so, BaggageClaim2fame was created.
Artists, student groups and corporations are encouraged to decorate/re-design luggage "suitable for display."
The art travels throughout the city to 6 public and private venues on exhibition.
Art will be judged and auctioned; the proceeds benefit the community-giving program, The Bexar County Arts and Cultural Fund (theFund).
The event and releases have been well-timed by the creative firm and hotel to celebrate National Tourism Week, San Antonio's Contemporary Art Month (July) and the unveiling of El Tropicano (September 2006).
More at BaggageClaim2Fame.com
Over a century ago, the Santa Fe Railway sent Thomas Moran to the Grand Canyon. In return for this adventure, they received the rights to one of his paintings. They had high-quality lithographs produced and sent them everywhere .... Today their collection of art is worth millions. And, it all started with one painting.
Do programs like this make a difference? I'll answer that question over the next few weeks.
