The Spovangelist

If ancient Greece had the Agora and ancient Rome had the Forum, what is Spokane’s modern day equivalent? One might think that Riverfront Park plays this role because large numbers of people gather there, but such events only take place a few days out of the year. There is no daily market activity in the park, and so maybe River Park Square Mall is a more appropriate analogy.

From the EWU Flickr photostream.

But what does it say about a culture when the heart of that society resides in a shrine to sex-driven conspicuous consumption?* Since there are few public meetings that take place in the mall, maybe it isn’t fair to say that RPS is the heart of Spokane. All political activity has been sequestered behind the sign-in desk across the street at City Hall. If the park is the recreational center, the mall is the commercial center, and City Hall is the civic center, I would like to posit that the Museum of Arts and Culture be recognized as our region’s cultural center.

While this is an obvious statement to some, I don’t think enough people see the museum in this way. It is interesting to think about the effects of these four areas of society being separated in terms of physical space, but my real purpose here is to invite you to participate in BeGin! at the MAC, tonight from 6-8pm. BeGin! is a series of open house-style happy hours to celebrate the resources that the museum provides to the public, and to remind folks that the museum depends on their support.

With live music, appetizers, drinks available and good people, these events are a guaranteed good time. They are similar in demographics to the Spokane Metro Magazine parties that were wildly popular until the publication’s eventual demise. Let’s not allow our precious museum to experience the same fate. BeGin! is also part of an effort by the museum to cultivate new audiences and foster an environment of participation that helps the institution stay responsive and relevant to the public’s interests.

I believe that at this time The MAC is in a sort of courtship with the younger generation of Spokane. We’re trying to find new ways to speak their language…to let people know that their voice matters and that the MAC is listening. Creating an environment where the public feels welcome – where they feel like they are a part of something – is a huge step in the right direction. In my opinion, establishing this atmosphere is just as important as the programs we promote or the exhibits we choose, as we journey towards our goal of becoming a cultural hub for the Spokane Community. -Ginger Ewing, Museum staff organizer.

Whether you’re going for the party or going to support an essential cultural institution, at least you will be there for BeGin!

• The Museum of Arts and Culture on Facebook.
• RSVP to BeGin! on Facebook.

*Small locally owned and operated businesses like Anemone paper flowers are a notable exception. I’m referring to chains like Abercrombie & Fitch.

Tags:   Community · Local Art · Local Music · Social Observations · Young People5 Comments