KCnext Sponsors Technology and Arts Forum at Middle of the Map Fest
Event showcases Kansas City's creative community, integrating technology and artistry
KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 3, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Kansas City's creative community will be on display during The Forum at Middle of the Map Fest, a technology and arts idea exchange on April 5 and 6. With CEOs, political leaders, artists and entrepreneurs on the program, The Forum is designed to refine and direct new ideas, experiences and collaborations within KC's tech and creative community.
"We're thrilled to bring together our region's thought leaders and cultural icons here in America's Creative Crossroads," said Ryan Weber, president of KCnext, the regional technology council sponsoring the Forum. "We'll be discussing a range of important topics including organic leadership, digital conservation, new urbanism, as well as arts and economics."
Forum speakers include:
- Bob Berkebile, founding principal of BNIM architects, who was instrumental in the formation of the U.S. Green Building Council and its LEED rating system.
- Bill Zahner, president and CEO of Zahner, an expert in the use of metals in artwork and architecture, including work on the 9-11 Memorial in New York City and with prominent architects including Frank Gehry.
- Julian Zugazagoitia, director of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
- Peter Witte, dean of the Conservatory of Music and Dance at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
- Porter Arneill, director and public art administrator of the 86-year-old Kansas City, Missouri Municipal Art Commission.
Panelists include Rachel Hack of Google, which is scheduled to roll out its Google Fiber service this summer in Kansas City; Anthony Magliano of Quixotic Fusion modern dance company; Mayor Sly James of Kansas City, Mo.; and Mayor Joe Reardon of Kansas City, Kan.
"Kansas City has become known as 'America's Creative Crossroads' because of our dynamic creative culture that connects the arts, business and technology," said Bob Marcusse, president and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. "Company executives, entrepreneurs and young professionals are increasingly drawn to regions like ours that offer a strong ecosystem that supports creativity and innovation."
The Forum will be held Thursday and Friday, April 5 and 6, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., alongside the Middle of the Map Fest in KC's Westport district.
Middle of the Map Fest brings more than 80 bands from around the world together from a range of genres for performances over the weekend of April 6-7. In addition, screenings of shorts, animations and feature length films produced by Kansas City filmmakers will occur each afternoon.
To register, visit middleofthemapfest.com/tickets.
About Greater Kansas City
Home to 2.5 million people, the Kansas City region offers the benefits of more than 50 unique communities and 18 counties in Kansas and Missouri. As "America's Creative Crossroads," the region's distinctive qualities come from a confluence of artistry and innovation. Kansas City and its corporations, universities and lifestyle assets are nationally ranked among the best places to work, innovate and explore. Contact KCADC to learn more about business and career opportunities in the Greater KC area. http://www.thinkKC.com
SOURCE Kansas City Area Development Council; KCnext
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