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Linda Brill
Executive Director, Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra
As executive director of the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, I work with the board and the maestro to oversee all operations of the orchestra. This includes fundraising, ticket sales, strategic planning, financial oversight, event planning, and more. I would advise that a career in arts leadership is a labor of love. It’s a field for risk takers, dreamers, collaborators, and fearless decision-makers. You must maintain a passion for the product and the impact that it has on your community. Stay in touch with the reason you entered the field. If you are a musician, keep playing your instrument! Your love of the art form will inspire you to propel your organization forward. Sustaining the arts requires advocacy, determination, and out-of-the-box thinking. You have to unapologetically champion your cause in a sea of those that are equally worthy, particularly now. Be brave, maintain your sense of humor, and continually look for friends in your community who share your passion.
Natalie DeLancey
Managing Director, City Springs Theatre Company
Dear Future Women Arts Leaders,
While all of our paths to a career in the arts may look different, our reasoning and purpose is usually similar: passion, creativity, talent, connection. I believe any career in the arts demands strength, hard work, and vision. In my experience, I would offer you this advice: 1) Know your purpose and what you hope to achieve. 2) Think big and never underestimate your capabilities. 3) Enjoy every moment. There will be challenges. Success may not come easily, but it will be worth it when it does! In my role as managing director at City Springs Theatre Company, I have the pleasure of overseeing the fundraising, operations, and finances of a 3-year-old organization that is bold, professional, and focused on serving the greater Atlanta community through Broadway mainstage musicals and high-quality arts education training. Keep dreaming, working hard, and connecting with like-minded people. Break a leg!
Jennifer Wrae McCann
Art Educator, Autrey Mill Middle School, Ceramicist, and Aerialist
Dear Future Women of the Arts,
Be persistent in your goals, yet patient with yourself. Through all the detours your journey takes you on, remember that! These detours are full of irreplaceable experiences. They are not taking you from your path. They are your path. Along the way, stay curious, ask questions, and continue to create or appreciate art in any capacity possible. In creating, accept that perfection is unrealistic. Value imperfection for its uniqueness and beauty and roll with it. This motivating force is what will carry you further. Also, remember that as an artist (curator, architect, dancer, designer, etc.), you are a communicator. Seek to understand others so that you may better reach them. Be humble, be grateful, and don’t forget to laugh.
Be true.