petergabriel.com

Peter has proven himself to be an activist in human condition. He speaks well, and addresses needs with great compassion. I live in Winslow Arizona. It is considered the gateway to the reservation lands. Most consider these regions to be akin to third world countries. They are some of the most economically depressed areas of the United States. What is unusual about the area is the number of world class artists you find here. It is mindboggling. The thing that is most unfortunate is that most of the artists and artisans here never find an avenue to success. quite often artists go from business to business trying to sell their product, and receiving a nickel on the dollar for their work. Others become street drunks occasionally scrounging materials for a piece to be sold for enough money to buy more alcohol. Attempting to persuade local governments to understand that the arts draw money has been grossly unsuccessful. They are just now beginning to come around, but this is slow progress. It is going to be more from outside intervention that this aspect will gain impact. Earlier this year three of us decided to purchase 17.82 acres of land at Clear Creek just south of Winslow. After a short discussion each of us decided to set aside an acre for the arts. I contacted other artists, artisans, and musicians in the region, many of which I know. On the property we also discovered a large natural amphitheater, and are in the process of developing it. This will be a work in progress for some time. We already have one big name band that has offered help after their tour is over, but it will take more. We have contacted others, but still await responses. If anyone wonders where this is going it is quite simple. If all of us help to bring change to the areas we live in we change the world effectively. It is only when people become notable that they can address things on a larger scale with some success. The arts are an effective vehicle for change. They build bridges between cultures, and people. This tools is why music is such an important part of life. Few wield it as well as Peter does. His music picks you up and makes you move by it's volition. That's is why Peter is successful and the blessing is that he is able to maintain this power in his art. Not all musicians are capable of this. Many fade shortly after they begin. Peter Gabriel grows within his medium constistently. He has also found that it give him leverage in the realm of bettering the human condition. This is an addition blessing we receive from his success. With all due thanks. Peter keep up the good work.

Fascinating to hear about this project and your efforts despite the problems. Governments and the arts, not an easy mix - they just don't recognise the benefits and how they improve the world for us all! Artists, whatever their discipline don't want hand outs but a chance to thrive like businesses do. I think Peter's recent comments on the WOMAD in Abu Dhabi says it all. Great to hear your positive message Woodsinger. All the best to you and your community for good progress. Keep us posted!

What has turned out most unusual in this project is that not only artists, but many of the citizenry of the area are helping out. After great discussion the the musicians of the area are convinced that they can earn the capital at the RockPile to build the buildings needed to help the arts move forward. This means we don't have to beg for money. The other asset is that many of also do construction work. We decided to keep dues low for those who wish to pay them, but we prefer that they become active members. By working on the projects they become members. In a time of economic hardship, which here has been a way of life, many can't afford even the $20 annual dues, but they do have a few hours here and there to offer service work. We also have a few nonprofit institutions that require their clientele to do community service. They are turning to us. What is very interesting is that most of the people showing up are also artists. Go figure.

Hi neighbor! I just moved to Tucson from North Carolina and I'm continually surprised at the plethora of unrecognized art/artists in the area. Many well wishes for your project and hopefully your success will encourage more to become active in support all forms of local art.

Any updates on this Woodsinger. Sounds like a great idea.

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