Creative Ideas

From the Imagination Conversation, to the HuB’s grand opening, to TEDx Sarasota, creative ideas are coming to fruition in Sarasota.

Last week, for the entire afternoon on Friday at the Art Center on Longboat Key, I had the privilege of joining the Imagination Conversation, a series of industry-specific discussions about creativity, innovation, education, culture, economy, and of course, imagination.

Hosted by Ringling College of Art and Design, the Imagination Conversations is a project of the Lincoln Center Institute aimed at placing imagination at the center of U.S. school curricula. Our group of marketing, advertising, media and PR professionals was led by Matt Walsh from the Observer Group and Patricia Courtois from Clarke Advertising and Public Relations.

Like others in the room who have participated in similar meetings, I sensed frustration and cynicism when the conversation inevitably found its way to the topic of re-branding Sarasota. However, we acknowledged the potential we have as working professionals to find ways to connect with our retired neighbors so we can find common ground and balance quality of life and economic growth.

On Saturday night The HuB held their grand opening celebration at their new downtown Sarasota location. If you weren’t one of the thousand-plus people to see their amazing video presentation, then follow this link and watch it on YouTube.

You’ve got to hand it to Jesse Biter, Rich Swier Jr. and company for pulling together young creative talent and crafting a new vision for Sarasota. Quite simply the HuB represents the difference between talking and doing. Way to go Rich!

Last but not least, the TEDx Sarasota main event is happening on 12-12-12. Along with a hundred or so other lucky attendees, I’ll be spending twelve hours on Wednesday listening to speakers, watching TED talks, and getting creative. Stayed tuned for next week’s update on what should be an exciting and engaging event.

Until next week,

Matthew Anderson, President
Milestone Marketing Associates, Inc.