ARTIST STATEMENT

I see art as an essential part of public health. Art helps us to know who we are and how we relate to the world around us. It calls on us to think, to question, and to integrate our values and how we live and belong to place. I am deeply committed to story as a collective cultural memory that joins us to the land and our living history. When we are informed directly by the voices of our communities – both their griefs and their triumphs – we begin to create culture together that is meaningful and specific to where we live. I also think international dialog and collaboration is critical, and I nurture and develop those connections in my professional life as much as possible.

HOW I WORK

My creative process evolves from story, thrives on collaboration, and is connected to place. I relish challenging projects that involve research and discovery. I enjoy creating works that engage the community in the development process and connect people to the ground where they live.

Let’s talk about your orchestra/ensemble and ideas! Let’s explore how we might work together to create something meaningful for your community. Please feel free to call or email me with your questions. I look forward to creating music with you! –Ann Millikan