Beyond Traditional Models: Fractional Production, Arts Funding & Community Conversations
Hey Creative Bestie!
So, I felt compelled to hop on the mic this week to talk about some of the things I'm observing in my local arts community. The stark contrasts developing in Georgia's creative ecosystem have been impossible to ignore, with struggling nonprofit arts organizations on one side and expanding commercial entertainment ventures on the other. These observations sparked some deep conversations that I just couldn't wait to share with you all. But first…
NEW EPISODE: "Navigating Change: From Fractional Production to Georgia's Arts Divide”
Our latest episode of Could Be Pretty Cool News features Dani Dufresne, CEO and Executive Producer of The Auxiliary Co. based in Austin, TX. As a pioneer of the "fractional executive producer" model in creative production, Dani shares her journey of reshaping creative production beyond traditional agency structures.
Some key highlights from our conversations:
Dani's innovative approach to fractional production and how it's creating more sustainable opportunities for creative professionals
The philosophy behind Ox Co's unique positioning: "This is not our work. We do your work, we get your vision made."
Building business infrastructure as a creative entrepreneur (forming LLCs, handling contracts, securing insurance)
Balancing creative vision with client needs while maintaining authenticity
The episode also features commentary from Kacie Luaders (me 🙂) on "Atlanta Arts: A Tale of Two Sectors," exploring Georgia's ranking as 50th in the nation for state arts funding while commercial entertainment ventures in Atlanta expand with substantial backing.
Listen Here
Metrics & Mingling 2025: Panelist Announcement!
I'm thrilled to announce we're once again hosting our live podcast event and mixer – Metrics & Mingling 2025! This year, on June 9th from 6-9pm at the Supermarket ATL we're bringing together an exceptional panel of creative innovators who are redefining success in their respective fields:
EmmoLei Sankofa – Composer, Producer, Artist, Musician EmmoLei will share insights on measuring creative growth across multiple disciplines and how she uses technology to enhance her music production workflow.
Alejo Porras – Sketchnote Artist, Illustrator, Graphic Recorder Alejo will demonstrate how visual thinking and illustration can translate complex data into compelling stories, plus his unique approach to tracking client engagement through visual metrics.
Anuli Akanegbu – Cultural Anthropologist, Cultural Worker Anuli will discuss how anthropological methods can be applied to measure community impact and the intersection of data collection with cultural preservation work.
Our panelists will explore how they're integrating tech as part of their administrative and creative workflows, their methods for measuring career growth with data, and strategies for building sustainable creative businesses in our changing landscape.
This is an event where YOUR voice is necessary! We want to hear your experiences, questions, and insights alongside our fantastic panelists. Come ready to connect, collaborate, and contribute to this important conversation!
"Pretty Cool" Partner Productions
Have you heard the first episode of Broadcasting History: The HBCU Radio Legacy? This important initiative is documenting and preserving the legacy of radio broadcasting at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It's a powerful reminder of how media has shaped communities and amplified essential voices throughout history. Check it out!
Best of luck in all your endeavors!
Kacie Luaders | Founding Producer, Could Be Pretty Cool