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9 Reports Later: Why We Still Struggle With Race and Belonging—And How Public Art Can Change That – Part 1
Manage episode 428154811 series 2818637
Further Adventures of L. O. Sloan
In this milestone 100th episode, Bill Cleveland engages in a deep, reflective, and often humorous conversation with his longtime friend and legendary activist, actor, dancer, playwright, impresario, and historian, Lenwood Sloan. The discussion spans many topics, including Sloan's incredible career in the arts, his reflections on social change, and the societal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode also touches on the roles of art and artists in activism and democracy, shining a spotlight on historical figures like Lydia Hamilton Smith and their untold contributions. The conversation serves as both a celebration of Sloan's legacy and a poignant commentary on current social issues.
00:00 Introduction to the Episode
00:33 A Rambling Conversation with Lenwood Sloan
03:16 Reflections on Pain and Perseverance
06:07 The Impact of COVID on Social Interactions
08:06 The Power of Decision Making and Imagination
18:43 Lydia Hamilton Smith: An Unsung Hero
27:27 The Role of Art in Social Change
31:52 Call to Action for Citizen Artists
BIO
For the past 40 years, Lenwood Sloan has provided inspiration, leadership and technical assistance both in the public and private sector.
On October 7, 2013, Mr. Sloan received the Distinguished Service Humanitarian award from Pennsylvania Humanities Council for his outstanding work in community organizing.
He is currently an International Consultant collaborating with the U.S. Embassy in Brussels and the multi nation “Liberation Route” on a new international WWII heritage trail. He is creative consultant for the Cameron Museum of Wilmington, N. C. USCT project, collaborator on the innovative “Two Roads “ series for the Irish Cultural Center of New York,
Throughout 2011 Sloan served as Pennsylvania’s film commissioner and was certified by the Association of Film commissioners international (AFCI). In that capacity, he directed the 60 million dollar film tax credit office.
From 2005 to 2011, Mr. Sloan served as director of Pennsylvania’s Cultural and Heritage Tourism Program His portfolio included the Pa festival initiative, the Appalachian Regional Commission’s 13 state geo- tourism initiative, the artisans’ craft trails , the PA Civil War trails
Lenwood Sloan has served as Director of the National Endowment for the Arts’ Presenting and Commissioning program , Deputy Director of Services to the field for the California Arts Council , Director of New Orleans Arts and Tourism partnership . He is recipient of the Louisiana Travel and Tourism leadership award for business innovations,
His artistic credits include creating “art in the market place” programs for the Rouse Corporation in New Orleans, St. Louis, Boston, and Baltimore. In addition, he participated on the artistic team for five national public television documentaries, Treme- Untold Story, Emmy award winning Ethnic Notions, Stephen Foster, the internationally acclaimed Re-imaging Ireland, and the Emmy award winning Dance Black America.
For the past 40 years, Lenwood Sloan has provided inspiration, leadership and technical assistance both in the public and private sector. On October 7, 2013, Mr. Sloan received the Distinguished Service Humanitarian award from Pennsylvania Humanities Council for his outstanding work in community organizing. He is currently an International Consultant collaborating with the U.S. Embassy in Brussels and the multi nation “Liberation Route” on a new international WWII heritage trail. He is creative consultant for the Cameron Museum of Wilmington, N. C. USCT project, collaborator on the innovative “Two Roads “ series for the Irish Cultural Center of New York, Throughout 2011 Sloan served as Pennsylvania’s film commissioner and was certified by the Association of Film commissioners international (AFCI). In that capacity, he directed the 60 million dollar film tax credit office. From 2005 to 2011, Mr. Sloan served as director of Pennsylvania’s Cultural and Heritage Tourism Program His portfolio included the Pa festival initiative, the Appalachian Regional Commission’s 13 state geo- tourism initiative, the artisans’ craft trails , the PA Civil War trails Lenwood Sloan has served as Director of the National Endowment for the Arts’ Presenting and Commissioning program , Deputy Director of Services to the field for the California Arts Council , Director of New Orleans Arts and Tourism partnership . He is recipient of the Louisiana Travel and Tourism leadership award for business innovations, His artistic credits include creating “art in the market place” programs for the Rouse Corporation in New Orleans, St. Louis, Boston, and Baltimore. In addition, he participated on the artistic team for five national public television documentaries, Treme- Untold Story, Emmy award winning Ethnic Notions, Stephen Foster, the internationally acclaimed Re-imaging Ireland, and the Emmy award winning Dance Black America.
Notable Mentions
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Change the Story / Change the World is a podcast that chronicles the power of art and community transformation, providing a platform for activist artists to share their experiences and gain the skills and strategies they need to thrive as agents of social change.
Through compelling conversations with artist activists, artivists, and cultural organizers, the podcast explores how art and activism intersect to fuel cultural transformation and drive meaningful change. Guests discuss the challenges and triumphs of community arts, socially engaged art, and creative placemaking, offering insights into artist mentorship, building credibility, and communicating impact.
Episodes delve into the realities of artist isolation, burnout, and funding for artists, while celebrating the role of artists in residence and creative leadership in shaping a more just and inclusive world. Whether you’re an emerging or established artist for social justice, this podcast offers inspiration, practical advice, and a sense of solidarity in the journey toward art and social change.
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