Visiting Restoring an American Treasure is completely free every day, thanks to a grant from PNC Arts Alive. Today, we have an interview with Debbie Marshall, Vice President, Director of Client and Community Relations for PNC Saint Louis, about the PNC Arts Alive program.
Catherine Wood: How did PNC Arts Alive come into being?
Debbie Marshall: PNC Arts Alive was developed to help arts organizations grow their audiences and expand the reach of the art form in the community. This initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Arts and Education Council and the Regional Arts Commission, builds upon the success of PNC Grow Up Great and advances our mission of economic development. The Greater St. Louis Region was selected for this significant investment because of its rich and diverse arts scene and the strong desire of PNC local market leadership to support the arts as a community outreach priority.
CW: What are the goals of the PNC Arts Alive program, and how do you work to accomplish them?
DM: The goal of the program is to increase arts access and engagement, by providing more and better opportunities to participate in the arts. Through PNC Arts Alive we partner with organizations selected to receive funding in implementing programs that will help create a framework for future sustainability. When the arts flourish, this contributes to creating a more attractive region in which to live, work and play.
CW: How does Restoring an American Treasure fit the goals of PNC Arts Alive?
DM: Restoring an American Treasure is a unique program that gives patrons a behind-the-scenes view of what goes into restoring a piece of artwork. Because the exhibit is free, patrons from a variety of backgrounds, interests and economic levels can not only view the exhibit, but also return to see the progress of the conservation work. This provides a greater opportunity to develop an appreciation for, and an interest in visual art.
CW: What kinds of organizations receive PNC Arts Alive grants?
DM: Arts organizations with a core mission focused on visual and/or performing arts are eligible to receive funding. In 2011, 16 arts organizations received funding and in 2012, 17 organizations received funding. Visit pncartsalive.com for information on the 2012 grantees.
