I’m on the road today to speak to the Rotary in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The topic is ‘exploring the true benefit of culture to communities,’ and the purpose is to take my arguments out for a public spin, and to stay connected as a university employee. Should be fun. If the speech works out, I’ll post it. If it doesn’t, I’ll bury it deep in the confines of my computer’s hard drive.
Sheboygan is a particularly interesting place to give such a talk, since it is home to a corporation particularly engaged with the arts. Kohler Corporation — makers of kitchen and bath appliances, as well as other odd things like engines and generators — has a long history of valuing and supporting creative expression, and even integrating artists into their work.
One fascinating example is the company’s Arts/Industry Program which places artists for extended residencies within its manufacturing facilities. As most will know, bathroom fixtures require ceramics and metalwork. And Kohler’s manufacturing plants contain state-of-the-art tools and equipment required to make both to exacting standards. Further, they employ master craftspeople with exceptional knowledge of the raw materials and the production process. As it turns out, ceramics and metal are also essential elements for many visual and sculptural artists. This program brings those worlds together to learn from each other.
The results for the artists include access to astounding teachers in ceramics and metalworking, availability of raw materials and equipment, and an active and public workspace for creative work they often do in isolation. For the manufacturers and craftspeople, the connection brings new perspectives on what they do, innovative ideas about the production process (that have informed actual product designs), and an interesting creative mix to their daily work (imagine a row of toilets coming out of the kiln, followed by what appears to be a ceramic dress).
There’s a great overview of the program on the John Michael Kohler Art Center web site, where the effort is administered. And you can find works of some of the resident artists, along with video interviews, on PortalWisconsin.
Very cool stuff. I’m eager to see it in person.
