The staff of the Arts Council was present at the 2010 ArtWorks Pre-Conference Sessions, Conference, and Arts Advocacy Day, which was produced by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and Virginians for the Arts.

The Pre-Conference on Tuesday covered two presentations on the current state of cultural arts districts in Virginia and in the nation. The first presenter was Brian Shull, Director of Economic Development for the City of Harrisonburg, who talked about the process of creating a cultural district. The biggest asset for Harrisonburg were joint marketing and PR efforts due to an increase of small local businesses and arts related busiesses and organizations.

Mr. Shull's presentation was followed by Theresa Cameron, Director of Membership at Americans for the Arts. Ms. Cameron gave an update of Arts and Cultural Districts Across Virginia and the nation.

Sculpture professor Sarah Doherty at the Maryland Institute of Art (MICA), topped off the day with a presentation on her most recent public art venture, Axis Alley.

Axis Alley has created site specific artworks in 23 vacant properties. The goal is the transformation of the neighborhood and the extension of the cultural corridor between Station North Arts District and the Baltimore Museum of Art.

The second day was filled with great presentations and speeches. The Arts Council was able to meet with Senator Janet D. Howell (Democrat - District 32) during the reception at the Library of Virginia. Pictured below are Scott Fridy, Director of Performing Arts, The Honorable Janet D. Howel, and Vance Zavela of the Fairfax County Office of Public Private Partnerships.