The Usefulness of Art – a new initiative
Posted February 1, 2017"The Usefulness of Art" is a new initiative created by Adam Simmons with a view to presenting major projects and events, with a focus on collaboration, high quality and artistic experiences.
Beginning with three projects presented at fortyfivedownstairs across 2017, with another two planned for 2018, "The Usefulness of Art" concert series to be presented at fortyfivedownstairs will feature Michael Kieran Harvey, Arcko Symphonic Ensemble, Sue Johnson, Wang Zheng Ting and Adam's own Creative Music Ensemble.
The notion behind this initiative is that art is fundamental in helping bring people together and create community. Through Adam's experiences as composer, performer, curator, director and educator across various styles and disciplines, he has come to understand music is especially strong in this regard. At a time when art is increasingly being commodified, it must not be forgotten that the intrinsic usefulness of art is about connection, sharing experience and encouraging understanding between people. Rather than focusing on the negative, the humble aims of "The Usefulness of Art" are to lead by example, encourage diversity and participation in the arts, engage but not simply entertain and to hopefully create a community inspired by positivity.
March 2-5 – CONCERTO FOR PIANO AND TOY BAND
Adam Simmons Creative Ensemble
Michael Kieran Harvey
August 24-27 – THE USEFULNESS OF ART
Adam Simmons Creative Ensemble
December 4-10 – TRAVELLING TALES
Arcko Symphonic Ensemble
Adam Simmons
Thursday to Saturday 7:30pm
Sunday 3pm matinee
$35/30 concession
Children under 12 free
Subscriptions available across The Usefulness of Art series:
2 concerts: $60/50 concession
3 concerts: $90/75 concession
fortyfivedownstairs
45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Bookings – fortyfivedownstairs.com or 9662 9966
More info: www.facebook.com/usefulnessofart
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.
This project is supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.
