a look inside Education Most of us associate “learning” or “education” with an activity we engage in during our younger years. We are certainly educated formally during those years, but I like to think about education as a life-long activity to acquire knowledge. Our community is built on creative imagination and we all benefit from the results. The driving force behind imagination is CURIOSITY, which in turn relies on acquiring knowledge. The arts provide the best opportunities to develop and nurture curiosity and to acquire the ability to conceive of new solutions – to invent a better future. Whether this comes about through our formal, curriculum-based school education programs or through emerging professional incubation programs or through attending a provocative performance, the arts stretch our imagination beyond the norm and compel us to learn more about “the other.” This edition of Stephen contains many examples of art connections that became heart connections. These stories illustrate the power of the arts to challenge, inspire, provoke and transform – and in these moments of art connections, we learn. Some of these connectors (if not “teachers”) have been around for a long time – we proudly celebrate One Yellow Rabbit’s 30 years in the community. Others visit us for the first time – like Bassekou Kouyaté, who will expose us to the rich music and culture of Mali. Many keep inventing new ways to convey the knowledge behind the art so that you and I can enjoy a deeper experience. We are so fortunate to live in a city where so many organizations and individuals support educational opportunities, thereby ensuring maximum access to the range of diversity that enriches our lives. The next Einstein or Gates or Atwood might be in the audience – all that is needed is the key to unlock their latent creative potential. The arts will do this every time!
Johann F. Zietsman President & CEO, EPCOR CENTRE for the Performing Arts Conversation with musican Hugh Masekela at Bow Valley College
arts. culture. calgary. you
stephen winter 2014
3