[Disclosure: In addition to Creative Loafing, contributor Danny Olda also works for Articulate Suncoast which is under the management of Creative Pinellas]For many inhabitants of the ubiquitous cubicle landscape, an eternally unchanging view is a reality best accepted. A change of scenery would be nice, taking your office on a tour of the county — convincing management may prove difficult.
Mitzi Gordon, however, has a unique job. With the singular “client” of the arts in Pinellas County, she’s setting up shop wherever the arts can be found. Mitzi and her office are going on tour, and kicking it off at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center.
Mitzi Gordon is the director of Creative Pinellas — a non-profit organization that, according to its website, aims to “promote, incubate, and develop” the arts in Pinellas County. The organization supports the county’s arts and culture through social media and blog promotion, fundraising and small grants, as well as educational programming.
"I interpret that mission by describing us as a facilitating organization, one that connects the dots", Mitzi say. "So in my new leadership role, I strive to connect artists with resources, connect organizations with visiting programs, and generally build opportunities that foster an ever growing variety of cultural activities throughout the county." To that end, April 7 marked the beginning of her Administrative Residency tour, directing Creative Pinellas from a variety of Pinellas’ many creative destinations.
Perhaps the most important aspect of the tour is it provides Creative Pinellas with a public office and open doors. The art-loving public is encouraged to visit with questions and comments, ready to engage. It also connects the organization to the large creative community it serves in real ways. However, Mitzi won’t only be occupying office space. Rather, she’ll “become a hands-on participant” at each of the organizations, assisting with projects at each venue.
Mitzi and Creative Pinellas’ first stop is at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center. She’ll be working from the popular North Pinellas organization through 18th. The tour’s next stop will be at the Palladium April 22nd through May 2nd. If your organization is interested in being a host venue email Mitzi Gordon at director@creativepinellas.org.