New York

Alumni Spotlight: André Onofre Limírio Chaves

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André posing in front of the Brooklyn Bridge, leaning against a barrier with his left arm and holding his right hand in the air, showing excitement.

We love catching up with our wonderful J-1 exchange visitors and hearing about how their programs impacted their lives and careers. Today, we are excited to share our J-1 scholar, André’s, experience. André is a Doctoral student in Science and Culture in History at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, in Brazil. With plenty of passion and experience in the museum and cultural spaces, Andre landed himself a very exciting curatorial internship at The Frick Collection in the spring of 2023.

What were some projects you worked on during your time at The Frick?
My main task was to organize the documentation and published material on the Spanish painting collection. My supervisor was putting together a new catalog about these paintings so I had the opportunity to study and research the works of Francisco Goya and El Greco. I carried out research in institution’s archive and also in the Frick Art Reference Library. I was able to organize and research documents and bibliographical materials for four paintings.

Were you able to visit other cultural institutions around New York?
I had the opportunity to visit the best museums and galleries in New York. I visited Neue Galerie, The Met, Jewish Museum, Guggenheim, Sotheby’s, TEFAF, Brooklyn Museum, Whitney Museum, Natural History Museum, New York Historical Society, Spanish Society, MoMa, and Morgan Library. My first time walking at the Central Park, seeing The Met and other museums was so important for me, so special. My favorite part of The Met is the American Wing, as I got to see how American art has developed from the colonial period to the present day.

 

André posing in front of the Brooklyn Bridge, leaning against a barrier with his left arm and holding his right hand in the air, showing excitement.
Andre standing between two Egyptian statues.

Do you have a favorite moment or experience from your program?
My favorite moments were when I went to Sotheby’s auction house and the TEFAF Art Fair, where I could understand how the art market in NY is, the role of researchers in this process, and being able to see incredible works of art. My second favorite moment was my visit to the exhibition “Juan de Pareja – Afro Hispanic Painter” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where the entire curatorial and educational team had a guided tour with the curator of the exhibition. In such a way, I was able to understand the concept of the exhibition from the beginning to the end, observing the role of the curators in the creation of the exhibitions.

What is one of the most exciting things you learned?
I had the opportunity to learn from the best curators in the USA, who gave me tips on how to organize an art exhibition, how to describe the objects, how to read a painting in order to understand the compositions, the state of conservation, and also the artists’ intentions. I learned a lot with The Frick’s curators. For me, who lives in a country with few museums of European art, it was an enriching and unique experience, as it is a way of understanding art beyond the academic world.

 

André looking at a painting.

Since the end of his program almost one year ago, André is back in his home country of Brazil, in Belo Horizonte. He is in the last few months of his PhD while also working as a document historian at the Minas Gerais Court Archive. At 7 years old, the archive is relatively new.

He is using his experience and new knowledge from his internship to create catalogues, videos, articles, and social media posts to publicize their archive and share them with the public.

“A lot of important documents from 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries were lost because of improper care or bad conditions or simply being thrown away. Professionals decided to create a space to preserve and organize these documents. It’s important to show Brazilians and international researchers the importance of these documents and why they should be saved because they hold an important piece of Brazilian history.”

Thank you for talking with us, André! We loved hearing about the important work you are doing to preserve and share history through art.

Want to share your story with us? Send us an email to get started!

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!

 

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!

 

New Directions in Performance Art

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After graduating from university and working for several contemporary art galleries in Italy, Manuela Nebuloni was ready for a bigger challenge. Her goal was to dive deeper into the field of performance and cultural production, learning more about how American organizations present these types of events. So, when the opportunity to do an internship in the United States arose, Manuela jumped at the chance!

We recently caught up with Manuela to learn more about her internship in New York, NY. Founded in 2004 by art historian and curator RoseLee Goldberg, Performa is the leading organization dedicated to exploring the critical role of live performance in the history of twentieth-century art and encouraging new directions in performance for the twenty-first century.

During her internship with Performa, Manuela had the chance to work as a Production Fellow with other outstanding professionals from the United States and beyond. “I learned a lot about producing shows in a fast-paced environment,” she told us, adding, “I took a deeper look into the American art scene, contemporary African art, and social engagement in urban centers.” Keep reading to learn more about her incredible experience in New York!

What impact has your traineeship with Performa had on your life and your career?

My exchange program allowed me to spend a six-month fellowship at Performa, a leader in commissioning artists whose work explores the critical role of live performance and encouraging new directions in performance for the twenty-first century. In my country, there is great interest in performance art right now and we are eager to learn about the research currently being conducted in the United States.

I especially appreciated the variety and diversity of the cultural offerings in New York. So many artists I admire chose New York as their base, or are drawn here from all over the world. I was part of a team I loved and very much enjoyed working with. There was never a dull day!

From the personal point of view the impact has been even greater; this experience in the United States has helped shape my vision on the role of art in our cities and everyday life. I expanded my understanding of American culture and benefited from a multicultural work environment. This is something that can be gained by diving everyday into a new context and by relating to people from another country.

What was your favorite memory from your exchange program?

As part of Performa17 Biennial, I had the chance to collaborate to the production of a piece by artist Kelly Nipper, in collaboration with MIT’s Self-Assembly Lab and the Granoff Center for the Creative Arts at Brown University. Working with a multi-disciplinary team over several months was an intense and enriching production experience. The work involved liaising daily with MIT, producing custom elements, and setting up for the performance. A captivating choreography on a newly-created soundtrack, it was a real opportunity to witness closely the full creative process. Supporting an artist in achieving her vision was a real privilege.

What was it like living in New York and what was your favorite thing to do in the city?

I loved spending six months in New York! I have fond memories of its streets, the cafes in Brooklyn, as well as its parks, beaches and art centers. It’s vibrant and felt like home. I feel I was totally immersed in the arts and part of the big machine of cultural production of New York. I couldn’t choose among the many performances, experimental theatre shows, contemporary art exhibitions, and live music concerts I saw. Every day was slightly overwhelming, in a good way.

Did you experience cultural differences when you first arrived, and how did you react to this?

As someone coming from a country that is proudly rooted in its past, it’s still mind-blowing to me to observe how quickly America changes. The age of buildings, habits, and provenance of people is quite a difference with Italy, which makes me curious to learn more about it. There are for sure differences in daily life, especially due to the big size of New York and its peculiarities. I felt that Italian culture is quite present in the American one. Adaptability when you are in another country is a must, it can be an effort sometimes but most of the time I regard it as funny and a chance of personal growth.

What does cultural exchange mean to you?

Taking the time to look intensely into another culture. There’s a great range of cultures if you go to the United States, diverse and multi-faced. It also means being open, curious, and allowing oneself to add an experience to your life. There is a lot to learn out there and many possibilities you’ll only see if you change point of view.

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

Go! You can’t help feeling enriched by the experience. Allow yourself to spend enough time in the United States. And travel, it’s a big country.

Learn more about IA&A's programs for performing arts managers and start planning your unique exchange experience!

 

Host Spotlight: The Louis Armstrong Center for Music and Medicine

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Since 1994, the Louis Armstrong Center for Music and Medicine (LACMM) at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York has been providing music therapy clinical services both in the hospital and in the community. By using music within the therapeutic relationship, the team at LACMM is able to address the many physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of patients. The music therapists at LACMM work with patients at all stages of their life, from premature infants to patients recovering from surgery to end-of-life care, making it an ideal complement to traditional medical treatment. As Dr. Joanne Loewy, Director of LACMM, explains “We are truly in-tune with our patients!”

Each year, International Arts & Artists partners with LACMM to provide J-1 visa sponsorship for international fellows and graduate interns participating in the Center’s educational and training program. LACMM’s program focuses on specialist-level care, giving fellows and interns the opportunity to develop professional skills including the principles of music therapy assessment, ethics, treatment planning, evaluation, and more.

We recently caught up with John Mondanaro, Clinical Director at LACMM, to learn more about LACMM, its training programs for future music therapists, and its experience working with international exchange visitors. “International Arts & Artists has been tremendous resource for talented individuals wishing to participate in all that the LACMM has to offer,” John told us. “As a grant funded program, the LACMM’s ability and desire to host such individuals has come to fruition more fluidly with the International Arts & Artists’ capability to provide sponsorship unique to each situation.”

What’s a day in the life of an exchange visitor at the LACMM like?

A day in the life of one of our exchange visitors can begin with a didactic seminar focusing on current methodology, experiential of clinical intervention, and trial within a lab-format. Clinical supervision with a designated licensed and board-certified music therapist on staff follows. Here the exchange visitor is provided with confidential space in which to process feelings, challenges, and successes he or she may be experiencing. The day can unfold as spontaneously as one might expect in a busy acute care medical setting in one of the busiest cities in the world. Clinical observation and application of learned interventions; participation in various research protocols in which the exchange visitor is either gathering data and questionnaires, or providing the music based intervention under investigation; sending time in outreach efforts, are all possibilities. The LACMM’s involvement in cultural initiatives and staff wellness offerings may draw the exchange visitor into the provision of such offerings. There is often time built into the day for exchange visitors to read from the LACMM’s library of our own publications, or visit the medical library to expedite literature review on a clinical phenomenon that the LACMM is studying. Additionally, exchange visitors are encouraged along with our interns and fellows to practice musical skills on the assortment of instruments that we maintain in our inventory. An ending of the day may be spent in attendance to one or our outreach efforts with marginalized populations such as a community choir for stroke survivors or a support group for individuals living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, or HIV.

What are some of your favorite things about hosting exchange visitors?

LACMM has had a growing presence internationally for 25 years, because our model of Medical Music Psychotherapy across the lifespan is unique in the world. Dr. Joanne Loewy and the LACMM team of therapists remains at the cutting edge of research and clinical practice, which draws much attention from music therapy students and professionals worldwide. The ability to share what we are growing with exchange visitors is a privilege that is made possible by the sponsorship opportunities afforded by International Arts & Artists. That many of our trainees will build programs in their own countries gives us tremendous pride, because at the center of such programming is the wellness and care of others.

What are some of the cultural activities that exchange visitors participate in during their program?

New York City offers a wide range of cultural events, some of which have affiliations with the LACMM. Our work with Lincoln Center in a program for adults with Alzheimer’s stands among many opportunities for the visitors’ exposure and immersion in this rich art scene. The LACMM has hosted visits with such music celebrities as Jon Batiste to the inner city schools of New York to promote music therapy with Asthma; conducted wellness groups and workshops with the Actor’s Fund; hosted departmental visits with opera star Renee Fleming, Grammy winner, Cheryl Bentyne of the Manhattan Transfer; and has welcomed and honored at our annual What A Wonderful World Gala, such celebrities as Jon Hendricks, Pete Seeger, Levon Helm, Dionne Warwick, Vanessa Williams, Dave Brubeck, Jon Batiste, Roy Haynes, and Bernie Williams.

What is the value to LACMM in hosting international visitors?

The LACMM receives from its visitors and trainees in the same spirit in which it gives: sharing the gold and planting seeds for future music therapy programs that will benefit people around the world. Cultural diversity stands at the forefront of healthcare initiatives, and the LACMM endorses music and music therapy as the treatment modality that unabashedly meets these initiatives because nothing like music can both viscerally engage and also transcend cultural barriers. By hosting candidates from around the world, we inspire this philosophy in others.

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

 

Supporting Artists and Exploring Museums in NYC

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Many of us know why exchanges matter! Exchange programs give visitors from around the world the chance to experience America’s diverse culture, to learn more about the arts in America, and to develop the skills they need to thrive in their professional careers.

We recently caught up with Heliis, a #J1Alum from Estonia who learn more about her internship at the International Studio & Curatorial Program (ISCP) in New York, NY. ISCP is an incredible organization that supports the creative development of artists and curators, and promotes exchange through residencies and public programs. The organization is New York’s most comprehensive international visual arts residency program, with over 1350 artists and curators from over 80 countries having undertaken residencies at ISCP.

During her internship with ISCP, Heliis had the opportunity to learn many new skills, particularly in communications and fundraising, by participating in many different projects throughout her exchange program. Keep reading to learn more about her fascinating experience in New York!

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

Thanks to this exchange experience I feel much more confident in myself and my skills. Working in a foreign office was a very enlightening experience, especially in giving me the entry-level skills I needed to get my career started. Since most of the jobs in the job market require at least some sort of professional experience, I think a full year-long internship was a good choice to obtain knowledge and also build my network. During the internship, I connected with so many different aspects of working in a nonprofit organization. I was trusted with important responsibilities which gave me more confidence in myself. This exchange year has definitely made me open up more about my career choices and what I would like to focus on in the future.

What is your favorite memory from your exchange program?

I have a lot of fond memories of my program. I enjoyed assisting the most with ISCP's social art offsite project Pablo Helguera: La Austral S.A. de C.V. This entire program consisted of telling stories of life and memories, and it was an amazing experience to see all the participants building their stories and the public express their experiences in a small community.

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

New York is such a huge city, that you can get lost in the activities that you can take part in there. However, I would say that I definitely enjoyed the rich museum scene, especially the art museums. Since I very much enjoy interactive experiences, I developed a few favorite museums such as the Whitney Museum, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and the Museum of the City of New York, which I visited numerous times during my exchange.

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

I would definitely say be very open-minded, be open to conversations, and be willing to share your experience. Americans are very open themselves and like to get to know you, what your interests are, and what your dreams are. At first, it might feel overwhelming because the culture is so diverse, but soon you will encounter so many different ideas, thoughts, experiences, and really meet people from all areas of life, which makes you feel part of it with your own experience.

What does cultural exchange mean to you?

I feel like the cultural exchange is very important in giving us as humans an opportunity to discover new things in life as well as within ourselves. Connecting with others and their cultures have enriched my life tremendously, and I am more than thankful for those experiences.

The Art of an Enlightening Exchange

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In the historic Neve Tzedek quarter of Tel Aviv, Anat Meidan has quite literally brought history home. A curator, art collector, and researcher, Anat and her husband turned their home into a private museum that displays the Art Nouveau and Art Deco art that they have spent the past thirty years collecting and restoring.

Among the many works in the collection is a portrait of Misia Natanson Sert, painted in 1905 by Charles Picart Le Doux, a student of Renoir. Anat has always been fascinated with the portrait and wanted to learn more about Misia and her life. She decided to travel to the Frick Collection in New York to pursue in-depth research on the Natanson family’s collection and Misia’s role as an art collector. The Frick Art Reference Library, which serves as one of the world’s most complete resources for the study of Western art, seemed like the perfect resource for learning more about Misia.

Anat was awarded a fellowship from the Center for the History of Collecting, established at the Frick Art Reference Library in 2007 to encourage and support the study of the formation of collections of fine and decorative arts. Each year, the Center offers short- and long-term fellowships that provide support to pre-doctoral and post-doctoral researchers, as well as senior scholars. International Arts & Artists is proud to support the Frick Collection and provide J-1 visa sponsorship for international researchers like Anat participating Center’s fellowship program. The wealth of material at the Frick Art Reference Library allowed Anat to research the history and importance of Misia, as well as the impressive private collection Misia and her husband amassed.

We recently caught up with Anat to hear more about her research, her time at the Frick Collection, and what she uncovered about Misia.

What impact has your exchange experience at the Frick Collection had on your life and your research on the Natanson’s collection?

It was a privilege to have been given the opportunity to work at the Frick alongside such committed and dedicated colleagues, who were ready to share with me their professional knowledge and expertise. I feel enriched by the experience and will cherish these days for the rest of my life. The ten weeks I spent at the Frick Collection Library filled me with immense pride and satisfaction at what I was able to achieve. Although I could not complete my research in the time I had at my disposal, I managed to do better than I had expected at the outset and I would very much like to return to the Frick to continue my work.

The initial impetus of my research at the Frick Collection came from a painting from my private collection. It is a portrait of Misia Natanson Sert (1872-1950) painted by Picart Le Doux (1905), and from the moment I acquired the painting I have been intrigued by Misia and her colorful life in Paris. The title of my research is: “Misia Natanson Sert – The Mystery and Mastery of an Art Collector.” Prior to embarking upon my research at the Frick, I already had an extensive knowledge about the fascinating life of Misia who was the muse for painters, writers, and composers who were attracted to her and sought out her close, intimate attention, and company. I also knew about the private collection of paintings she and her husband Thadée Natanson (1868-1951) had built up during twelve years of their marriage and which had a great influence on the artistic scene of late 19thcentury Paris. Their collection, which had to be sold due to financial difficulties, consisted of 65 paintings and was auctioned at Hotel Drouot in Paris on June 13, 1908. Until I actually held the sale catalogue from the 1908 auction which is in the Frick Collection Library, I had no knowledge of all the paintings the Natansons had in their collection. This information was of great importance to me and had a significant impact upon my research. After ten weeks at the Frick Collection Library I had managed to locate, identify, or trace 53 of the paintings, which are either in the possession of major museums and art collections throughout the world (11 are in the United States), private collections, or whose current whereabouts are unknown. This is an important achievement, being one of the main objectives of my research. My exchange experience at the Frick Collection has had a strong, important impact on my life as a researcher and collector. It has encouraged me to pursue different directions: to write a book, to tell the story of the Natanson’s collection, and/or propose an idea for an exhibition.

What is your favorite memory from your exchange program?

My favorite memory from my exchange program is the exciting moment in which I discovered that one of the paintings that had belonged to the Natansons (Lot no. 21 by Cezanne) was stolen from a museum in Oxford on New Year’s Eve in the year 2000, in a daring robbery. It has not been seen since and as far as I can tell this was “breaking news.”

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

I enjoyed visiting the museums, and going to dance performances and concerts. I was even photographed next to paintings of Misia herself or next to those from her collection.

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

Enjoy it to the utmost. One should know how to combine research program with what city can offer to the visitor.

What does cultural exchange mean to you?

Even though this is not the first time I’ve been to New York, the long period of stay enabled me to get know the city in depth, to do things when it was convenient for me, with no pressure of time. I had the feeling that New York became friendlier to me, or that I became friendlier towards the city.

Building a Future Through New Experiences

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Jannis Acbard has always been fascinated with the design process and exploring new countries. While pursuing a degree in landscape and garden architecture, New York always stood out as the perfect place to gain work experience in a new and fast-paced environment. Thanks to his exchange program, Jannis was able to live in New York while interning with Joanna Pertz Landscape Architecture (JPLA).

During his internship, he worked on a variety of tasks, including drafting landscape plans, writing maintenance and planting reports, and assisting with on-site planting and installation. JPLA allowed Jannis to be part of a design team, improve his English, and gain skills necessary to further his studies and career in landscape architecture.

We recently caught up with Jannis to hear more about his internship and his time in New York!

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

​I gained a lot of experience working at JPLA working with the most familiar programs (Photoshop, InDesign, AutoCAD) to me. This made me better and faster at working with these programs. It also gave me a nice life experience of living by myself and living in another country.

What is your favorite memory from your exchange program?

​Living in an entire new city outside of Europe. Getting to experience a totally different lifestyle and pace of life. It has been a really nice time getting to explore everything that NYC had to offer and I never had enough of it.

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

​I enjoyed visiting museums and architectural landmarks. Besides that I always enjoyed just walking and discovering new things in my neighborhood or in another part of the city.

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

​If you are going to the United States, be sure to plan everything way ahead and have a second plan in case anything doesn’t go as planned. If you come from Europe, it will be quite the opposite for you when visiting but everything is so nice there!

What does cultural exchange mean to you?

​It means getting to experience a different culture of an entire new city and country. Discovering the way of living, the way people are and live, and tasting the food and culture.