Advocating for Arts Education with Wendy Liscow

Today is the Day Changemakers

Welcome to season 3, episode 3 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.
I am delighted to welcome this week’s sensational guest, Wendy Liscow, a champion of the arts. Wendy is the executive director for Arts Ed NJ, providing a voice for artists in New Jersey, having taken the reins in April of 2022. She is nearly six months into her new position and with her excellent ability to nurture talent and foster creativity, the transition is natural.

As a person who has gravitated towards art and nature since childhood, she is driven by experiences in her early years. Wendy grew up drawing inspiration from the Earth, often painting what she saw in nature, and even creating a business selling her art. She then developed a passion for the art of drama through writing, costumes, performing, and stage managing. Wendy describes theater as a way to create change, which led her to “pursue it with all her heart”. She committed herself to theater education following a directing internship which opened the door to her for not only directing but improv, producing and teaching. After spending 20 years as professional producer, director, and teacher of the arts, she has now come into her position with Arts Ed NJ.

Wendy ensures everyone in New Jersey has access to a quality arts education through collaboration with teacher associations, administrators, superintendents, school boards, and nonprofits. She urges the next generation of artists to consider teaching as she wishes to support young people looking to create change and pass the torch in the world of artistry. Wendy's unique perspective allows her to view art as both a “flower” as well as a “tool”, as it is often inspired by nature yet it also can be used strategically to build confidence and skills. However you interpret art, it is wise to take a page from Wendy’s book and use it to help find yourself and create the change you wish to see in the world.
Listen in to hear a lesson Wendy has learned that she wants to share with both young and seasoned changemakers.
Do you have a story to share? If so, reach out to Jodi at [email protected].
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Jodi is also the CEO and co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. To learn more visit: www.applaudourkids.org, Facebook, Instagram
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Next week Jodi interviews young changemaker, Tiyasha Sarkar. Tiyasha is going to share her point of view on fast fashion and what she is doing to make a difference.
Have a great week everyone!