
Defending Creative Voices: United in Challenging Times
Standing Together: Why Creative Communities Must Unite and Speak Up in Challenging Times, and How You Can Help by John Andrews The Power of Creative Solidarity Against Authoritarianism In Essex County and beyond, we at Creative Collective are witnessing a pivotal moment that affects all our creative communities. As allies committed to amplifying diverse voices, we’ve observed how tensions between

Massachusetts Creative Economy Leaders Unite with Lawmakers to Address Support Gap
Yesterday morning, Creative Collective had the honor of co-hosting a Legislative Networking Breakfast with the Peabody Essex Museum. The breakfast brought together cultural leaders and elected officials from across our region for a vital conversation about the creative economy in Massachusetts, focusing on community support and civic engagement. The Massachusetts creative economy faces unique challenges that require dedicated advocacy and

When Art Speaks: Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Moment and Why Supporting Local Creatives Matters More Than Ever
The lights dim. A figure stands alone on stage. In front of 133.5 million viewers, Kendrick Lamar doesn’t just perform – he transforms the Super Bowl halftime show into a masterclass in creative storytelling and social commentary. This watershed moment reminds us why supporting creative voices, from global stages to local communities, has never been more crucial. The Power

Investing in Creativity: The Economic Benefits of Supporting the Arts
Investing in Creativity: The Economic Benefits of Supporting the Arts. By Chris O’Keeffe and Creative Collective Chris O’Keeffe is the founder of OK Creative: The Language Agency. Have you checked out the recent Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 report? It’s a direct and clear articulation of the power and value of arts-based happenings and a vibrant creator community in our

The Economic Impact of Arts and Culture in Massachusetts
As the brush strikes the canvas, as the ballet shoes glide over the stage, as the poet pens a heartfelt verse, so does the soul of a nation come alive. Art and culture are more than mere expressions of creativity—they are the threads that weave our lives’ rich tapestry. In a world often caught in the clutches of pragmatism and

Arts and Culture Advocacy Series: Miranda Aisling
The Arts and Culture Advocacy Series features voices in the community who are actively working to promote arts and culture as an essential and valuable part of business, community, and daily life. Tell us a bit about yourself and what role you play in the creative community? My name is Miranda Aisling (ash-leen), I’m an artist, community organizer, and entrepreneur.

Arts and Culture Advocacy Series: Kate Luchini
The Arts and Culture Advocacy Series features voices in the community who are actively working to promote arts and culture as an essential and valuable part of business, community, and daily life. Tell us a bit about yourself and what role you play in the creative community? As Salem’s Planner for Arts & Culture, I strive to elevate and advance

Arts and Culture Advocacy Series: Mechelle Brown
The Arts and Culture Advocacy Series features voices in the community who are actively working to promote arts and culture as an essential and valuable part of business, community, and daily life. Tell us a bit about yourself and what role you play in the creative community? I’m the Director of the Cultural District and Community Engagement for the Town

Arts and Culture Advocacy Series: January O'Neil
The Arts and Culture Advocacy Series features voices in the community who are actively working to promote arts and culture as an essential and valuable part of business, community, and daily life. Tell us a bit about yourself and what role you play in the creative community? I’ve lived in Beverly since my son was born in 2003. Since then
Arts and Culture Advocacy Series: Karen Ristuben
The Arts and Culture Advocacy Series features voices in the community who are actively working to promote arts and culture as an essential and valuable part of business, community, and daily life. Tell us a bit about yourself and what role you play in the creative community? Currently, I am working with the Essex County Community Foundation managing a two-year