Episode 27, ACT 1: Michael Wiggins - Shifting Systems with Rigor and Love

Our newest episode, Episode 27, Act 1: “Shifting Systems with Rigor and Love,” which again features the inspiring Michael Wiggins, begins with a fascinating chat with Courtney’s friend and colleague from across the pond, Rhian Hutchings—OperaSonic (Creative Director); Artworks Cymru (Partnership Manager). Together, they discuss the important work that Participatory Artists (similar to Teaching Artists) are doing in South Wales. They also discuss how their chance meeting at ITAC3 (Edinburgh, 2016), where Courtney was presenting on the Teaching Artist Pathways (TAP) Tool, inspired Rhian to dig deeper and think more broadly about how to empower Participatory Artists to be leaders in the field of arts integration. When the episode shifts back to Courtney’s conversation with artist, arts administrator, activist and author, Michael Wiggins, the conversation shifts dramatically. Discussing and debating the word “enrichment,” Michael and Courtney explore how we, as Americans, don’t care nearly enough about the arts enrichment of our young people because “enrichment,” both as a thing and a term, doesn’t exist or is too nebulous. They also talk about the shifting paradigm, within the context of the arts and social structures, and where the state of the art and the state of humanity is headed. This enlightening and thoughtful episode is one you won't want to miss.