Launchpad Testimonials
Sydney Morris
"Through the Launchpad, I’ve become connected to a network of artists that inspire me to push forward, to collaborate, and to support the arts in a vibrant community. It has connected me with professionals and has propelled me forward into more than one prestigious job opportunity." |
I could answer with all the buzz words, that the community of artists and professionals that you get to talk to, learn from, and grow with is invaluable; that the very affordable rent offers the breath of space to create without worry, or that the biennial exhibition inside Five Points Gallery is an amazing opportunity that will only propel the young and emerging artists it nurtures forward. But, instead, let me share with you how the Launchpad has saved me, personally.
Two years ago, and some change, after papering what felt like the entire state with my resume, I was facing the reality that I would likely have to leave in search of more opportunity. This meant leaving the state I grew up in, the state where my family and friends live, where I went to school, where I made my life. Interviewing for the Launchpad program was my absolute last ditch effort to stay in Connecticut, and probably the last chance that I’d continue pursuing art. When I graduated, I not only lost the physical spaces in which I could create, but I also lost the motivation.
Through the Launchpad, I’ve become connected to a network of artists that inspire me to push forward, to collaborate, and to support the arts in a vibrant community. It has connected me with professionals and has propelled me forward into more than one prestigious job opportunity. It has taught me invaluable lessons about managing a gallery, preparing for exhibitions, skills such as networking, writing press releases, planning and executing community events, fundraising, and so much more. Not only has the Launchpad spring-boarded my professional growth, but it has also vastly improved my artistic process. I would never have explored the work I am creating now without the advice of my Launchpad peers. This program is the linchpin to a constant flow of creativity and routine that continues to nurture my artistic growth. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Launchpad, and I’m absolutely certain my peers would echo my sentiments.
-Sydney Morris Hartford Art School; University of Hartford Class of 2015
Two years ago, and some change, after papering what felt like the entire state with my resume, I was facing the reality that I would likely have to leave in search of more opportunity. This meant leaving the state I grew up in, the state where my family and friends live, where I went to school, where I made my life. Interviewing for the Launchpad program was my absolute last ditch effort to stay in Connecticut, and probably the last chance that I’d continue pursuing art. When I graduated, I not only lost the physical spaces in which I could create, but I also lost the motivation.
Through the Launchpad, I’ve become connected to a network of artists that inspire me to push forward, to collaborate, and to support the arts in a vibrant community. It has connected me with professionals and has propelled me forward into more than one prestigious job opportunity. It has taught me invaluable lessons about managing a gallery, preparing for exhibitions, skills such as networking, writing press releases, planning and executing community events, fundraising, and so much more. Not only has the Launchpad spring-boarded my professional growth, but it has also vastly improved my artistic process. I would never have explored the work I am creating now without the advice of my Launchpad peers. This program is the linchpin to a constant flow of creativity and routine that continues to nurture my artistic growth. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Launchpad, and I’m absolutely certain my peers would echo my sentiments.
-Sydney Morris Hartford Art School; University of Hartford Class of 2015