who we are
The steering committee first started meeting in July of 2022 with a goal of planning an Art Walk event for Emerson East and Eken Park neighborhoods. As we did research on similar events and learned about what was involved, we realized our neighborhoods could benefit from more than just one event. We decided to become an organization whose purpose is to support and highlight the unique talents of visual artists living in the Eken Park and Emerson East neighborhoods. While we are still in the early stages of development, we hope to extend the work of this group well into the future. We decided to become Emerson Eken Arts in order to clearly identify ourselves with a sustained effort to support visual arts in our neighborhoods.
Statement on Diversity, Freedom of Expression and Hate Speech
Emerson Eken Arts is a neighborhood arts association that is deeply committed to supporting diversity of creative expression and the principles of equity and inclusion. We are passionate about nurturing the vital role that the arts play in the search for truth and meaning in our often complicated existence.
All participants are made aware of the values of EEA when signing up for the art walk and asked to maintain a respectful space. Each artist is solely responsible for what they choose to express through their art. If those expressions conflict with EEA’s values, those expressions don’t reflect the organization’s values.
susan kaye
I am a multimedia artist and resident of Emerson East neighborhood since 2000. I am a ceramic artist, sculptor, print maker, painter, baker, and photographer. I love this area because it is filled with creative people who care about community. I began envisioning an Art Walk for Eken Park and Emerson East as a way for us to support the artists that live among us, build connection between neighbors, and showcase the vibrancy of our visual arts community in a way that hasn’t been done here before.
sara hinkel
I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to help advance the arts in our community. I have lived in Emerson East with my spouse for over 20 years, during which I obtained an additional degree and started my own business providing interior design and event planning services. I am deeply inspired by the work of visual artists and am thrilled to structure my work to support volunteerism in this area. As Volunteer Curator for the Goodman Community Center and active participant in Emerson Eken Arts, I hope to meet and lift up the many artists whose gifts make Madison such a special place to live.
charlotte easterling
I’ve lived in the Eken Park neighborhood since 2011, and it’s been exciting to see it grow and thrive! I’m a freelance graphic designer and illustrator who works from home. During breaks in my workday, I enjoy taking walks around the neighborhood and seeing the fun, quirky, and beautiful things that people make. During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to help promote events like Gallery Night, Art Fair on the Square, and Chroma—I’m thrilled to have a chance to help my neighborhood’s art shine!
Contributors
lori henthorne
I took the plunge after 34 years and retired as an art teacher to spend more time making art. I have lived in the Emerson East neighborhood for 25 years and have loved watching this neighborhood flourish! When not making pots outside in my driveway I am deciding what new coffee shop to visit or where to sit outside and have a beer. I believe an art walk will help to showcase what a jewel this neighborhood is!
anita temple
I have been a resident of EENA for over 20 years. I love nature and have been deeply involved with Demetral Park's green space. However, I also love art. I see this endeavor as unifying our neighborhoods and sharing our incredible talents with art. Art and nature are essential for me.