CEP Intern

Curating Basque Culture with Anne

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Anne, J-1 Intern at Basque Museum and Cultural Center

Have you ever heard of the Basque Country? Well, in case you haven’t – it’s an autonomous region nestled between northern Spain and southern France, bordering the Bay of Biscay. The Basques are one of the oldest ethnic groups in Europe, known for their rich cultural identity and unique language called Euskara.

Now, let’s travel from Europe all the way to Boise, Idaho, where we will find the Basque Museum and Cultural Center (BMCC). Founded in 1985, the BMCC exists to “preserve, promote, and perpetuate Basque history and culture.” The BMCC has been a longtime partner of our Cultural Exchange Programs, hosting many J-1 visitors from the Basque Country over the years.

In today’s blog, we’re highlighting Anne González Aspiazu, a J-1 curatorial intern at the BMCC. Her program, which comes to an end in December, has already been packed full of great experiences!

Anne, J-1 Intern at Basque Museum and Cultural Center

What have you been working on so far during your time at the BMCC?
My main responsibilities consist of helping to manage the collection of the BMCC, cataloging photographs, documents, archives and objects belonging to the museum, generally donated by Basque families settled in Boise. To do this, I have been part of the entire process: obtaining the photographs while being in direct contact with the families, digitizing them and being able to put them in the database once the families have identified the people, places and dates of the photographs. Additionally, I am also working on some designs for some children’s t-shirts so they can sell them at the museum. (Seen in the photo below!)

What is something you’re looking forward to during the rest of your program?
Starting this summer I will begin curating an exhibition in one of the museum’s spaces, which is very exciting. This, for me, is a professional achievement, since I have already curated exhibitions but never alone.

 

Anne J-1 Intern, Basque Museum and Cultural Center, T shirt design

What is it like to see the Basque influence in an American city?
It is very interesting to see how American and Basque culture created strong ties that endure to this day. I find it fascinating to meet people with Basque surnames and hear them speak Basque with an American accent. I think what happens in Boise is something unique.

Anne’s supervisor, Amaya Herrera, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, also shared her thoughts about Anne’s program.

She joined Boise’s local Basque dancing group, the Oinkari Basque Dancers, and attends their practices, and accompanies them to local festivals and performances. We usually joke – Anne had to come all the way to the United States to learn how to Basque dance! Anne has gone above and beyond during her time at the BMCC; she has excelled at every task we have assigned her. She is attentive to detail, organized, and a hard-worker. She is always ready to learn, eager to help, and is a joy to work with.

Anne J-1 Intern at Basque Museum and Cultural Center

We’re glad to see you’re having such a great time, Anne!

If you’d like us to highlight your own J-1 story, send us an email.

Alumni Spotlight: Rory Diamond

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We are extremely excited to highlight our J-1 alum., Rory Diamond, from Canada. During his program at Sony Pictures in Los Angeles, Rory gained hands-on television writing experience in the Writers’ Room of the hit show, The Good Doctor. He also found time to experience life in California to the fullest by going to concerts, sporting events, and learning to surf!  He is now working as a Script Coordinator for The Good Doctor in Canada. Keep reading to join his wonderful journey in Hollywood!

 

What impact has your J-1 experience had on your life and your career?
I got to live in the city where the heart of my industry is, which not only was a dazzling life experience, but an eye-opening step in my career. I am now fully trained and able to Script Coordinate, a unique and valuable skillset, which grants access to the fabled Writers’ Room. I’m currently exploring ways to do it in Toronto for other Canadian shows. Not only has this allowed me to continue working on The Good Doctor from Canada, but also has opened many doors and created connections of which the value is difficult to measure.

What is your favorite memory from your J-1 program?
My favourite memory was of my first day being in the Writers’ Room. Just walking in and seeing the whiteboards covered in chicken scratch that may or may not be seen by millions of viewers. The free lunches, the coffee runs, the nervousness of speaking up, and the incredible feeling when something lands. By all accounts, deciding to be a TV writer is a silly decision, but in the Writers’ Room, those doubts seemed to melt into a warm sense of validation that I hold close to my heart.

What were some of your favorite cultural activities to do Los Angeles?
Eat delicious food and see amazing comedy and music. And if I could do both of those in one night, which was something I did often, I was a very happy boy. I loved living in Los Angeles. I saw my favorite band, Phish, play at The Forum, which is a classic venue I’ve always wanted to go to, which was a great experience. I did a lot of hiking, which you can’t really do in Toronto.

What advice can you offer to future exchange visitors coming to the United States?
Rent a furnished apartment if you can, to avoid the trouble of purchasing a bunch of furniture off Facebook Marketplace and then having to sell it all on Facebook Marketplace a year later. Sign up for classes and meet people. Go to as many networking things as possible; make connections that will help you in the future, wherever you end up. Take advantage of the unique things your city has to offer. Hike, bike, eat, and have fun.

What does cultural exchange mean to you?
It’s the true definition of a win-win. It makes me happy and gives me hope that two countries can work together to provide such a wonderful program and experience for their constituents. I think anyone who is able to endeavor this experience would be better off for it.

Any last thoughts?
At this point, I think I could thrive in any Canadian Writers’ Room and I don’t know if that would have been the case a year ago. [The exchange] was an amazing experience.

 

 

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Rory!

Looking for a place to get started with your own exchange program? Check out our website to explore different fields or explore different cities!

Exploring Interior Design with Courtney

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A few months ago, we visited our exchange visitor, Courtney, at his interior design internship with Janine Dowling Design, Inc. in Boston! Courtney is a university student from the U.K. and completing an internship abroad is a requirement for graduation. This experience has provided him with hand-on work experience and a new cultural perception. Read on to learn about Courtney’s journey!

What have you been doing here at work? What are some projects you’ve been working on?

At this moment, I work on 6 projects exclusively with Janine, which was been great. I love working on this project in Connecticut. It’s such a fun project; the couple loves more of a modern aesthetic. They have a beautiful house and the color scheme and style matches my own so it’s been fun to work on. I probably gave the most input, design-wise, on that project. It’s currently wrapping up so I’m seeing the work that I did back in January come to life so that’ been very exciting.

What have you learned so far that you would not have had the chance to learn otherwise?

The main thing I’ve learned is something you can’t learn in school, which is the people side of things. Some clients say yes to everything and trust you completely; they give you reigns. Some clients are particular. You really have to know them to understand [their style]. Janine’s been teaching me how to funnel what you think is best for a client through a conversation with them. She’s been really happy with the progress that we’ve made. She’s a great boss.

 

What have you learned about the arts, design, and/or culture in America?

Throughout my time in the United States, I have visited a range of different art galleries including the Harvard art gallery, MOMA in New York City, The Museum of fine arts Boston, and the ICA Boston, and taken part in a variety of cultural activities. From this I have learned that American culture has a diverse culture with more history than I first thought.

Your program was originally 6 months long, but you’ve chosen to extend it for a full year. Can you tell us why?

What I didn’t realize is how long it takes for a project to come to life. A couch, for example, can take up to 12 to 13 months to be developed because of Covid-19. Usually, it’s 8 to 9 months. I’m not going to see any progress within the next two to three months on a lot of the projects I’m working on, especially right now, so I decided to extend. Janine asked me to stay on and I wanted to see my creations come to life.

Craving an awesome exchange experience like Courtney’s? Send us an email for more information!

Alumni Update: Hyppolite’s “Be the Peace” Walk

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IA&A #J1Alum and genocide survivor Hyppolite Ntigurirwa recently finished a 100-day walk across Rwanda to commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Genocide Against the Tutsi. His “Be The Peace Walk” was a performance that invited individuals from around the world to spread messages of love and peace. As Hyppolite explained, “It is a performance of remembrance and resilience from brutality and fatalities towards a more peaceful future.”

Hyppolite is a performing artist, researcher, and activist whose work focuses on ending the intergenerational transmission of hate. In 2016, he participated in IA&A’s Exchange Visitor Program, completing an artist-in-residence program with Arts Connect International, an organization that cultivates and connects leaders in the arts field committed to cultural and social inclusion. Since then, he has continued to build peace through art and engagement. His current work focuses on using theater as a tool for healing, reconciliation, and peacebuilding in post-conflict communities both in Rwanda and abroad.

Hyppolite isn’t one to simply ask for change, and he hopes to inspire others to reject the complacency in non-action. The #BeThePeaceWalk started in his home village of Mibilizi on April 15 and ended in Kigali on July 25. At least twice a day, Hyppolite stopped to talk to those around him about their responsibility to seek peace. “What I experienced I never want any child to experience. That is what I have been telling the communities. The peace we want to leave for our children and the generations to come is the peace we have to work for today,” he said in an interview with The New Times. Through this walk and his other peace activism he honors the memories of his loved ones and all victims of the genocide. 

Learn more about IA&A's programs and start planning your exchange experience!

 

Travel Tales from the Team: Megan

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At International Arts & Artists, we love hearing about the incredible experiences our exchange visitors have during their programs! From exploring new cities to experiencing different cultures, exchanges expand our understanding of the world around us. We know all about the power of exchanges — in fact, many of our team members have studied, worked, or lived abroad! So, we’re launching a new blog series called “Travel Tales from the Team” where we’ll share more about our own travel experiences.

Meet Megan, our fantastic Program Officer! A native East Coaster, Megan grew up in Massachusetts and received her Bachelor’s degree in environmental and sustainability studies from Bard College. Invested in language and the arts, you can find her teaching English, attending a play or dance class, or continuing her intense study of Arabic.

Keep reading for more on what Megan had to say about her experiences traveling and living abroad!

Have you ever lived abroad for an extended period of time?

Yes, I am very fortunate that I had the opportunity to live abroad for an extended period of time. I have traveled to Jordan a number of times. My first trip was on a semester-long rugged travel and exploration program in college. The program was focused on exploring different lifestyles in different parts of Jordan. I had the opportunity to live in Bedouin style tents and try traditional Jordanian cuisine. It was an adjustment at first, but I grew to appreciate a style of life completely different from my own. I also spent a lot of time living with a Jordanian host family who I became very close to. I visit them every time I return to Jordan. During my recent trip, I stayed in the capital city of Amman for six months learning the local Arabic dialect. The more familiar with the language I became, the easier it was for me to assimilate.

What was the first place you traveled to outside of the country?

The first place I traveled outside of the United States was Canada. I went on a school trip with my middle school French class to Quebec. I had an amazing time with my friends. We were amazed by how different the culture was despite it being so close to us geographically. We went in December, and felt like we had entered a winter paradise. We loved the food that we tried: traditional Canadian and French foods. I still think about the first time I tried boiled maple syrup poured over snow on a freezing day. By going on that first trip, I was able to have my first experience of travel and independence, and it only made me yearn for more.

What did you learn about yourself while abroad?

I learned that I am able to adapt to new situations, and that I can rely on myself when traveling. This has helped build my feeling of independence and self-reliance.  Once I realized that I could take care of myself in a cultural context completely different than my own, I knew that I was going to be alright no matter where I went. This confidence has helped me in my work and travel life. It has helped me conquer my fears and step outside of my comfort zone.

What advice do you have for people traveling or looking to travel abroad?

My biggest piece of advice is to be open to spontaneous adventures. It is always important to plan certain aspects of a trip and to have an understanding of the country in order to keep yourself safe, but some of the greatest adventures I’ve ever been on were ones that I stumbled upon. By giving myself the freedom to stray from my plans to explore something unexpected, I have seen amazing spots that aren’t listed in tour guides because I spoke with locals. Always be open to a new adventure because it will be different from what you expect it to be.

Pride and Allyship with Lucy

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Each June, individuals across the United States and around the world come together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month. While Pride may mean many things to many people, it’s often understood to be a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s accomplishments in the face of adversity and discrimination.

The beginning of Pride in the United States is often traced back to the Stonewall riots that occurred in the late 1960s in New York. On June 28, 1969, in Greenwich Village, police conducted a routine raid of the Stonewall Inn. This bar was popular among some of society’s most marginalized groups, including many members of the LGBTQ+ community. While raids were common at this time, unlike previous raids, the police force did not tip off the bar beforehand and arrived during the packed early morning hours. Officers roughed up patrons, confiscated bootlegged alcohol, and arrested over a dozen people for crimes like violating the state’s gender-appropriate clothing statute.

The bar’s LGBTQ+ patrons, many of whom were runaways and homeless youths, had finally had enough of unjust police aggression and social discrimination. The tipping point is rumoured to have been when an officer hit a lesbian over the head as he forced her into a police vehicle. She shouted at the crowd to act, and soon a full-blown riot with hundreds of participants began. For the next three days, these activists demanded respect and equal rights, galvanizing LGBTQ+ political activism in the public’s conscious.

Since the Stonewall riots fifty years ago, the United States has made progress in addressing the discrimination members of the LGBTQ+ community face. Some states have started offering non-binary gender markers for certain government-issued documents, while the Stonewall National Monument now encompasses the streets and sidewalks that were sites of the 1969 riot. Pride is observed each year in June, celebrating the diversity and plurality of these communities. It also brings visibility to the real issues members of the LGBTQ+ community still face, many of whom are targets of violence and hate. Pride brings awareness to the community and helps to combat that hate.

To celebrate Pride, IA&A is highlighting the diversity among those who have participated in our Exchange Visitor Program. We’re exploring what those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and allies experienced while participating in their exchange programs in the United States. Our intern Felix recently sat down with Lucy, an exchange visitor from the United Kingdom who interned at the digital branding and creative agency Sideways in New York. Keep reading for more on Lucy’s experience in New York and what she learned from her exchange program!

Lucy grew up in a small village outside of Leeds in the United Kingdom, and told Felix that when she worked at one of her local agencies almost all of her coworkers were straight men. Lucy identifies as a straight woman and didn’t think much about it at the time. Over the course of our conversation she walked Felix through the differences between American and English culture, and how this exchange led her to confront her implicit biases.

She recounted at time early in her program when she was asked to create a mood board for the company Aurora Elixirs. As Lucy said, "I created what I thought was a beautiful, mixed, stylized collection of imagery that both encapsulated and elevated the brand.” However, when her supervisor reviewed her work she pointed out that almost all the models were young, slim, white women. That conversation still resonates with her. “That constructive feedback, which is something I also learnt to receive with more grace and act on far more proactively, has stuck with me ever since, and instilled a more inclusive outlook on both my work, my behaviors and my understanding of the world,” she shared. In the same vein, she told us that, “working within a group of almost exclusively women and homosexual men allowed me to witness, understand, and appreciate diversity more than ever.”

Over the course of her internship, Lucy worked with many different luxury hotels, curating content for their social media accounts and helping further define their brands. She and her coworkers always made a point to feature diverse models, like when she designed an ad that featured both a straight and a gay couple instead of sticking to the client’s original, less inclusive request.

After her internship ended, Lucy flew to Los Angeles and took a road trip to the San Francisco Bay area, taking time to reflect on what she’d accomplished in the United States and brainstorm her next steps. In sharing her every move with her growing Instagram audience, she’s refined her storytelling abilities. She’s currently editing these video clips into a short film that’ll serve as a representation of her exchange experience.

Before her exchange program, Lucy knew she had a lot to learn about subjects like race and the LGBTQ+ community. She also admits she still has a lot to learn! In Leeds, it’s commonplace to describe something awkward or odd as “gay.” Over the course of her time in New York, Lucy learned how to be more than just an indifferent bystander. “Since coming back, I’ve noticed a big change in my behavior,” she told us. “When I hear certain words and phrases I’ll say something now. I’ve learned how to be an ally.”

Learn more about IA&A's programs and start planning your exchange experience!

 

Hungry for Adventure with Michał

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Through exchange programs, those in the creative fields can immerse themselves in different cultures by meeting new people and exploring new places. Cultural exchange enables them to share their talents and hone their skillset, while also broadening their perspectives. Seeing the world in a new light welcomes compassion, inspiration, and wisdom.

We caught up with Michał, an exchange visitor from Poland who completed a graphic design internship with Brooklyn-based creative office Labour. The studio heads and founders, Ryan Dunn and Wyeth Hansen, rarely take on interns. This was no obstacle for Michał, as he interned there twice, first in 2014 and again in 2016. During his internships, he worked directly with the studio heads on project concepts, illustration, and graphic design tasks. In his spare time, Michał was also able to visit museums, galleries, and other design studios.

Keep reading to learn more about his incredible experience in Brooklyn!

Looking back, what are your thoughts about your experience with Labour?

I felt very much a part of the team. It was a great privilege to work alongside Ryan and Wyeth. They say that their aesthetics overlap but their approaches are different. I’m glad I was there to see that dynamic and their design process. I like how they can keep an open mind and allow themselves to do brave explorations in order to find a perfect and unique solution. The amount of design history knowledge they have is impressive. It was very interesting and helpful to use these references while working on different concepts. As it usually is in smaller studios, we worked on many things. Branding, animations, web design, and more. One of the most interesting projects was the exhibition design for the Museum of Food and Drink. I learned how to approach such a massive task, break it down to smaller pieces, engage visitors, and tell stories through a variety of mediums.

What is your favorite memory from your exchange program?

During my internships I was introduced to other people from the industry and we visited a number of different design studios, parties, and events. I experienced a little bit of NYC’s design community. It felt like everyone knew everyone! I was happy to find out that it’s a supportive rather than competitive environment. A big highlight was meeting Lance Wyman on one of the rooftop parties in Manhattan. He designed the identity for the Mexico 1968 Olympics! An incredible experience that I will never forget. And I have to mention joining Chinatown Soccer Club for a few sessions in scorching NYC summer heat!

What was your favorite cultural activity to do in New York?

There are many great museums in New York, but the Museum of Food and Drink in Brooklyn is very special. Labour is not only responsible for their exhibition designs, but also has become an important partner of the museum. Attending a discussion panel led by Paola Antonelli featuring Ryan and Wyeth was one of my favorite cultural activities. It was inspiring to listen about designing for taste and smell and creating a shared experience among visitors. NYC is also an amazing place if you love live music. I was lucky to see some of my favorite bands as well as discover new names while exploring the clubs and music venues of the five boroughs.

What advice can you offer to future exchange visitors coming to the United States?

Most of my time in the United States I’ve spent in New York, which definitely is a special place. Every neighborhood is different, so I recommend exploring as much as possible, even trying to live in various parts of town. There are so many people subletting their rooms and apartments, especially during summer! I also recommend connecting with other creatives. Reaching out to people you look up to has never been easier. They are busy, but friendly! I need to follow that advice more as well. If you have a chance, travel to different states and explore the United States. It is a really beautiful country!

Museum of Food and Drink. Photo courtesy of Megan Swann. 

What are you up to now?

I’ve always been fascinated by the Scandinavian design and lifestyle. To see how it really is, I decided to move to Norway. Now, after almost two years in the north, I feel like it’s time for a new chapter. Every day, I’m trying to stay curious and learn as much as I can.

What do you think the future of graphic designing is?

More and more people are becoming aware of the importance of graphic design. Designers are more conscious of their role and our clients understand how powerful design can be. I see many people going back to basics, back to the roots of design, and getting inspired by nature. With that approach, modern tools, technology, and easily accessible knowledge, the future of graphic design looks exciting.

What impact has your exchange experience had on your life and your career?

My exchange experience allowed me to be more courageous and made me hungrier for new experiences. The people I met and worked with are the definition of passion. That passion is what makes their work outstanding. I’m lucky to have experienced that.

What does cultural exchange mean to you?

It means meeting people and listening to their stories. It means being curious and looking at the world with an open mind.

Learn more about IA&A's programs for designers and start planning your exchange experience!

 

Pride and Fashion with Nicole

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Each June, individuals across the United States and around the world come together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month. While Pride may mean many things to many people, it’s often understood to be a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s accomplishments in the face of adversity and discrimination.

The beginning of Pride in the United States is often traced back to the Stonewall riots that occurred in the late 1960s in New York. On June 28, 1969, in Greenwich Village, police conducted a routine raid of the Stonewall Inn. This bar was popular among some of society’s most marginalized groups, including many members of the LGBTQ+ community. While raids were common at this time, unlike previous raids, the police force did not tip off the bar beforehand and arrived during the packed early morning hours. Officers roughed up patrons, confiscated bootlegged alcohol, and arrested over a dozen people for crimes like violating the state’s gender-appropriate clothing statute.

The bar’s LGBTQ+ patrons, many of whom were runaways and homeless youths, had finally had enough of unjust police aggression and social discrimination. The tipping point is rumoured to have been when an officer hit a lesbian over the head as he forced her into a police vehicle. She shouted at the crowd to act, and soon a full-blown riot with hundreds of participants began. For the next three days, these activists demanded respect and equal rights, galvanizing LGBTQ+ political activism in the public’s conscious.

Since the Stonewall riots fifty years ago, the United States has made progress in addressing the discrimination members of the LGBTQ+ community face. Some states have started offering non-binary gender markers for certain government-issued documents, while the Stonewall National Monument now encompasses the streets and sidewalks that were sites of the 1969 riot. Pride is observed each year in June, celebrating the diversity and plurality of these communities. It also brings visibility to the real issues members of the LGBTQ+ community still face, many of whom are targets of violence and hate. Pride brings awareness to the community and helps to combat that hate.

To celebrate Pride, IA&A is highlighting the diversity among those who have participated in our Exchange Visitor Program. We’re exploring what those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and allies experienced while participating in their exchange programs in the United States. Our intern Felix recently sat down with Nicole, an exchange visitor from Canada who interned with womenswear fashion company Tanya Taylor Designs in New York. Keep reading for more on Nicole’s experience in New York and what she learned from her exchange program!

Do you identify as someone in the LGBT+ community?

I identify as a female who is pansexual. I came out because I wanted to live my life freely and with full positivity.

Have you noticed differences between Canadian and American LGBTQ+ culture?

The LGBTQ+ culture between the two countries is fairly similar. New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles are larger metropolitan cities, which are more accepting of diversity. These cities have many LGTBQ+ friendly cafes and restaurants, that are quite fun and show a flare of creativity. Also, Pride parades vary quite differently between the United States and Canada. New York’s Pride is big, loud, and proud, while Vancouver’s Pride, hosted in my hometown, is much smaller and has a more “West Coast” approach. Vancouver's parade travels through the streets and ends with a beachside dance party with a surrounding art market and food vendors.

When did you create your clothing brand Phoexion?

I was inspired to create this brand shortly after I came out with my identity. It was at the time when I became connected to the concept of "Rising like a Phoenix," and associated this concept to spiritual growth. Similar to the metamorphosis that a butterfly undergoes. I was thinking conceptually about how the mythical Phoenix, is a bird that burns its previous body and sheds its previous skin, through which a new egg is hatched from the ashes, birthing a brand new phoenix bird. I believe that personal growth, evolution, and change are important for spirituality and in discovering your own identity. The Phoenix is what I use conceptually in my work to represent "coming out" which is typically known in LGBTQ+ culture. Currently, we need to empower that this action is an important step towards living a positive life for someone who is queer. However, I hope in the future we will no longer need to "come out" with our identities. The Phoenix is the perfect representation of your past and present self, which symbolizes acceptance, freedom, and liberation.

What guided you to its creation?

I come from a strong sculpture, painting and fine arts background. In my undergraduate studio practice, I explored the topic of sexuality and the body. Now my creative medium has taken shape through fashion. The seductive application of materials in Phoexion conjures the soul of a bird in the process of cultivating a new, stronger self, wearing its identity fashionably, and the vulnerability of self with pride; the difference between living one’s truth proudly and living in the ash darkness of a protective shell. My clothes represent a prideful armor; such as the "coat" of identity. I want my customers, to feel confident, artful and colorful when they wear my garments.

You've said that with your brand you are "creating creative clothing to support the LGBTQ+ community." Why is this important to you?

I want everyone to feel like they can wear my garments no matter how they identify. My brand represents inclusivity; Phoexion means Phoenix for the People. I want to empower the community by showing that they can be confident in their unique and different identities. My current slogan is “Find your Pride, Find your Pattern, Find your Phoexion.” I use this as a means to inspire. "Coming out" might be the first step towards living a positive life, but I believe that everyone is on a perpetual journey within themselves and towards positivity. I think its important to have a strong relationship with yourself, be kind, and be your own best friend.

Tell us a bit more about your internship with Tanya Taylor!

During my internship, I was responsible for rendering, editing, and revising sketches as well as placing prints for the spring and summer 2020 ready-to-wear collections. I have always loved textile design, and Tanya Taylor opened the possibilities of print mixing in my work. I learned how to mix two opposing prints and combine them in a garment. I also learned how to incorporate embellishments and curate a cohesive fashion collection. Design is very much about finding a sense of balance between different elements. This is the main skill I cultivated in my internship at Tanya Taylor.

You're currently interning with Tanya Taylor Designs for your exchange program, and you were featured in their Women Cut From Their Own Cloth series, with a focus on women making a difference in the LGBTQ+ community. Could you tell us about this initiative and how you felt to be a part of it? 

I was speaking with Tanya Taylor and she asked me why I want to be a designer and what I want to do with my brand. I told her about my brand and that my goal is to empower the LGTBQ+ community through creative clothing. It turns out that this was a great decision, because the brand was in the process of building out an initiative for WorldPride. The next week our senior marketing director asked to interview me as part of the initiative. I felt accepted, valued, and courageous. It's important to state that a third of the entire LGBTQ+ community is not out at work or in their careers because they are afraid that it may jeopardize those opportunities. This experience is a glowing example of what can happen when you are unafraid and confident.

What does cultural exchange mean to you? 

A cultural exchange is an opportunity to become integrated in a different environment and lifestyle than what you may used to. New York is an inspiring city; it's dynamic, vibrant, and artistic. My experience in New York is different every time, however the consistent variable is change. As an artist, it is crucial to put yourself out there constantly, while looking at the world through a lens of curiosity. This has always been a core aspect of who I am, and is part of why I choose to take risks, discover new places, and push myself out of my comfort zone. So, next time you make a decision, listen to Madonna's song "Jump" and take that leap of faith because you never know where it could land you!

Learn more about IA&A's programs and start planning your exchange experience!

 

Travel Tales from the Team: Abby

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At International Arts & Artists, we love hearing about the incredible experiences our exchange visitors have during their programs! From exploring new cities to experiencing different cultures, exchanges expand our understanding of the world around us. We know all about the power of exchanges — in fact, many of our team members have studied, worked, or lived abroad! So, we’re launching a new blog series called “Travel Tales from the Team” where we’ll share more about our own travel experiences.

Meet Abby, our amazing spring intern! A senior at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, she is currently majoring in Cultural Anthropology and International Studies with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa.

Keep reading for more on what Abby had to say about her experiences traveling and living abroad!

Have you ever lived abroad for an extended period of time?

Yes! I had the opportunity to live and study in Tanzania for a semester during undergrad. While in Tanzania, I stayed with a host family and took courses in Swahili, anthropology, and ecology. Additionally, I completed an independent research project and paper, living in the field for a month and conducting interviews with Maasai women and men.

I miss the vibrancy of the people, my host mother’s coconut chicken curry and chapti, dancing around with my toddler-aged host brother. I also miss the brilliant cobalt, lemon and crimson kangas, juicy and succulent produce, and swinging monkeys. It was such an incredible experience that it sometimes seems surreal!

What was the first place you traveled to outside of the country?

I believe it was Canada! I was on a canoeing and portaging trip in the Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota and due to weather we got sidetracked from our main route and camped in Canada. Thinking about the peacefulness of the pines, lapping cool water, and galaxy of stars and shining moon still calms me today.

Do you have a favorite place that you’ve traveled abroad?

This is a tough question! One very memorable trip was when my family went to Scotland for several weeks. We stayed in a writer’s mansion, explored the cobblestone streets, ate a lot of sausage patties, learned Scottish history, how to clay shoot, and, of course, visited a ton of castles. My favorite day was when we ventured far into Stonehaven to visit Dunnottar Castle on the coast. Crisp wind whipped our hair as we climbed the beige ruins who stood tall as turquoise waves rushed below. It was fun to imagine the royalty living there in medieval times.

Another trip that is highly memorable is the month I spent in Scandinavia! I had the opportunity to travel to Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. I was with a college group so we had a fairly busy agenda. I wish I could have spent more time in one or all of the countries. Especially because the locals kept asking, “Why did you come in the winter?” So, I would love to go back during the summer; hiking along the fjords in Norway or cruising the secret lanes of Copenhagen!

What did you learn about yourself while abroad?

Every time I go abroad or travel somewhere new, I am reminded of the deep passion and excitement that comes when I learn from different people, places and cultures. Travel replenishes my curiosity about our world and how we live. I have also learned that some of the best times come when I go with the flow.

Is there a place you’ve always wanted to go?

Greece! I would love to see the many archeological sites from ancient times. I would also enjoy basking in the aquamarine sea on one of the smaller islands, wandering windy streets, and eating up that Mediterranean cuisine.

What advice do you have for people traveling or looking to travel abroad?

Take a leap of faith and go somewhere new! You never know what you might learn or discover about yourself unless you reach beyond your comfort zone. Explore, do not be afraid to ask questions (no matter how “dumb” they may seem), and try not to plan too much.

 

Galleries and Growth Galore with Bob

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Meeting new people and exploring different places is what cultural exchange is all about! Exchange programs give students and recent graduates the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures, to share their talents, and to acquire new ones. Perhaps most importantly, exchanges have the potential to broaden one’s perspective and see the world in a new light.

We recently had the chance to catch up with Bob, an exchange visitor from Luxembourg, to hear more about his exchange experience! During his program, he interned with an art gallery in New York, NY, helping plan and host events, exhibition openings, and more. Through his internship, he was also able to work directly with artists the gallery represented. He visited their studios, handled their work, and helped field requests alongside his colleagues. As he told us, “The daily contact with artists and their artworks changed my perspective on the art market and the commitment it takes to successfully run a gallery.”

Keep reading to learn more about his incredible experience in New York!

What impact has your exchange experience had on your life and your career?

This exchange program allowed me to gain professional and practical skills that complement my academic background. Being part of a cultural institution like a gallery or a museum is an incredibly rewarding experience and the expertise I acquired during my exchange program provided me with invaluable insights into the contemporary art world.

With the help of IA&A, I was able to work in one of New York’s most fascinating areas, SoHo, with its countless galleries and artist studios. The daily contact with artists and their artworks changed my perspective on the art market and the commitment it takes to successfully run a gallery. The cultural resources of New York’s museums and institutions broadened my horizon and made me gain memories that last for a lifetime.

What is your favorite memory from your exchange program?

My favorite memory from my exchange program is the evening I spent at Carnegie Hall for the Richard Tucker Gala. I am a great admirer of operatic talents and the Tucker Award is the biggest recognition that an emerging singer can get. It was hence an enormous pleasure to enter the wonderfully decorated auditorium of Carnegie Hall and to witness the high artistic standards of the Metropolitan orchestra that accompanied the singers. I remember the performance of Angela Meade particularly well. She is an American soprano with an agile and powerful voice that was thrilling to hear when it pierced through the orchestra and choir of Verdi’s “I Lombardi”.

What was your favorite cultural activity to do in New York?

My favorite cultural activity was to visit the galleries of SoHo. It was encouraged by my host organization; my coworkers and I would spend our lunch break or the evening discussing the artists we discovered. I would like to point out that the cultural topography of New York is unique as emerging artists receive support from institutions like the Whitney or MoMA and the quality of their artworks is generally outstanding. There is no doubt that New York is the capital of the contemporary art world and provides learning opportunities that I was ready to seize whenever I could.

What advice can you offer to future exchange visitors coming to the United States?

My advice to future exchange visitors is to seize the cultural opportunities of the United States. The museums are among the best in the world and the musical institutions are outstanding. I would also like to point out the importance of travelling as much as possible. My trip to Washington, DC, showed me the cultural diversity of the United States. In addition to the Smithsonian museums I would recommend a tour of the Capitol and the Library of Congress.

What does cultural exchange mean to you?

Cultural exchange is a means to promote friendship and the values of tolerance and respect in a world that faces social and political instability. I believe that the Exchange Visitor Program gives young adults the opportunity to broaden their cultural horizon and to learn not only from the professional framework of the host organization, but from the daily life in a fascinating new country and city. I would strongly recommend to participate in an exchange program as it shapes one’s perspective on the world in a wonderful way.

Learn more about IA&A's programs for arts and gallery management, and start planning your unique exchange experience!