Porter Arneill

This “accidental” arts administrator first discovered Americans for the Arts during the conference in St. Louis in the early 90s. I was working as the curator of education at Laumeier Sculpture Park at the time and was privileged to provide tours for conference-goers. Like a puppy first discovering a familiar species in the neighborhood, I was spellbound by the unique gathering of arts professionals. Through good fortune, I became a member and have attended almost every conference since 1995.

Americans for the Arts membership provides me a myriad of connections, resources, and opportunities to grow in this uniquely exciting and ever-changing field. The annual convening of my peers is invaluable as both a professional resource and a therapeutic experience! The Public Arts Network (PAN) Council provides current information, and I often seek wisdom from the growing catalog of webinars and the wealth of other resources on the website. Membership in Americans for the Arts keeps me connected with the most nimble-witted and altruistic people I know―can’t beat that.