I am currently taking a leap of faith. Actually quite a few leaps have taken place.
There have been several leaps of faith materializing over the past several months. The leap didn't happen overnight, yet in many ways it has felt like it did. It is exciting and daunting, as all leaps tend to be. It's a strange feeling to have planned, waited (impatiently, I might add), to let the timing simmer to the right temperature for the precise chemical reaction to occur; and suddenly, the time is now.
So, alls I have to do is live it?! That's the best option I've had in some time! The opportunities coming my way are further steps in fulfilling my dream of being a creative and getting paid for it.
It was not an easy decision. Ok, yes, it was. It is scary and exciting, especially as the economy of our country goes down the tubes; but, I hate to dwell on that. (Don't get me started on my soap box on that topic!) The Lord brought these opportunities to me and the transitions happened before my very eyes.
While I will continue to work with the Mississippi Humanities Council,* I made the decision to officially launch a freelance business in music and film**, and accept a part-time position with the Culture & Heritage Development area for the Mississippi Development Authority and Department of Tourism.***
Wow.
For some time, one of the main things that I've wanted to do is be able to work in the arts in Mississippi and get to know the state better by traveling to most every corner. (I've also wanted to travel more, period, but that's beside the point at the moment...)
*It's thrilling for me to work for the Mississippi Humanities Council, which supports so many incredible research and community programs across the state. What is fascinating to me is how the Humanities Council truly rounds out the arts and development programs throughout the state and sadly, doesn't get half of the recognition it deserves. It is truly an incredible organization. I cannot stress enough to please be aware of the local Humanities Council in your own state and find out, and most importantly PARTICIPATE, what they are doing to preserve your regional culture, heritage and community.
**My freelance business, Anna Kline, Creative Project Management was a culmination of about 3 years worth of work and exploration in music and film. I have quite a few projects that I have been hired to do. Just recently, I changed the focus and scope of my business to include all the new projects I've been acquiring. Not a bad problem to have, eh?! I am currently finishing my first short film as well as collaborating on several other projects in music licensing, film production and PR.
***Thursday (yesterday) I was officially hired by the Mississippi Development Authority/Department of Tourism to work with their department of Culture & Heritage Development.
MDA has many facets. There is a Film Office, Culture and Heritage Division and Blues Trail, among others - but these are my favorite! :) (I have worked with the Blues Trail folks when I coordinated Malaco's Blues Marker Ceremony in April 2008.)
I will be working with Mississippi's Literary Trail and also with the Film Commission eventually. From what I understand, I will be traveling to the location of famous Mississippi writers and creating itineraries for potential travelers - recommending sites, restaurants and other pertinent information and taking photographs as well. Potentially even video footage, too.
Today I purchased my first real camera: an Olympus e410 kit that comes with 2 lenses. I have no clue how to operate it yet (I know how to work a camera, but this one has all kinds of bells and whistles). It will arrive sometime next week.
I am so excited and can't wait to get started!!As Nanci Griffith sings, "...the asphalt is burnin' tonight." I'm ready to be where the rubber hits the road.
My first assignment is to complete the itineraries for Eudora Welty. Here is an quote from Eudora Welty as she talked about her job with the Works Progress Administration as a Junior Publicity Agent in Jackson:
"It took me all over Mississippi, which was the most important thing to me, because I'd never seen it ... [The experience] was the real germ of my wanting to become a real writer, a true writer" natural wonders. "there’s so much more of life that only words can convey.... "
She feels that southern writers care deeply about place. Nevertheless, she fears this subtle element may be escaping. Photography has a profound influence on Welty’s mode of writing, teaching her that “Life doesn’t hold still.” (by Carol Ann Johnston)
If you've made it this far, then you will now know the true purpose on this blog.
I will report about my adventures
across the state and beyond,
as I explore
Soulsville USA.
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