Transformer Series | April - June 2021

Midtown Detroit, Inc. is pleased to present Transformer, a new series of moderated panel discussions and learning opportunities focused on how cultural organizations, artists, creative technologists, and others are creating compelling digital experiences, engaging audiences, and building resilient strategies and models for the future. Curated and produced by rootoftwo in partnership with Midtown Detroit Inc., these convenings will engage local, national, and international thought leaders over the course of six 90-minute sessions from April - June 2021, funded through a grant from John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

The Transformer Series will consist of live virtual events with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Sessions will be held on Zoom webinar and recorded for livestream and/or re-broadcast for the wider Detroit creative community and audiences beyond. Each session is accompanied by recommendations for pre/post readings, media, and takeaways for further exploration.

Open to all employees at the CCPI institutions and members of the CCPI steering committee. The sessions will also welcome a few others from related organizations in Midtown and beyond with targeted artists/creative practitioners included.

CCPI INSTITUTIONS: Carr Center; Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History; College for Creative Studies; Detroit Historical Museum; Detroit Institute of Arts; Detroit Public Library; Hellenic Museum of Michigan; International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit; Michigan Science Center; Midtown Detroit, Inc.; The Scarab Club; University of Michigan; and Wayne State University.


SESSION 1: Collective Caretaking: Building Visibility & Capacity Together

EVENTBRITE REGISTRATION: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/transformer-series-collective-caretaking-tickets-148068281215?aff=MDI

Collective Caretaking: Building Visibility & Capacity Together (Zoom Webinar)
Wednesday, April 7, 2021
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM EDT

As cultural organizations and districts begin to open for visitors, this session explores the way they are using digital and physical brand and messaging experiences to build confidence, communicate safety, and welcome. This session also highlights how cultural district leaders and member organizations are collaborating and creating innovative shared services paradigms that have helped them to navigate change and digital transformation during the pandemic.

Moderator: Cézanne Charles, rootoftwo

Guest Speakers: 

  • Guillaume Aniorté, Director of International Strategic Development, Quartier des Spectacles

  • Vaughn Perry, Director of Equity, 11th Street Bridge Project

  • Debbie Berry, Vice President of Community Development, University Circle Inc.

  • Suzana Bishop, Chief Experience Officer Acting CEO Federation Square

  • Mauricio Garcia, Chief Program & Engagement Officer The Highline

  • Michelle Boone, Chief Program & Civic Engagement Officer at Navy Pier


Future Transformer Series Dates:

  • April 7: Session 1

  • April 21: Session 2

  • May 3: Session 3

  • May 19: Session 4

  • June 2: Session 5

  • June 16: Session 6