Convergence of Artistic and Technology Communities

[Corey Bordelon]

I was at Lafayette CampFiber today, and Mr. David Isenberg (who came all the way from Connecticut to attend) brought up some interesting points about uniting the Technology and Arts Communities within an area. He used the example of something done in Amsterdam (the name of this event is escaping me now).

Next weekend, not even a mile from where CampFiber took place, we have Festivals Acadiens et Creoles. It is a large gathering of artists and musicians celebrating a culture, music, and way of life that is unique. It's taking place in Girard Park. Across the street from the park is ULL's Center for Advanced Computer Studies. From the discussion today, it is evident that LUS's Fiber Network can have a great benefit to everyone in the city.

I'd like to start a discussion on how the technology community could come together with the art community for events like Festivals Acadiens or Festival Internationale to enhance the experience for all (besides making a brochureware site for the event).

Any ideas?

[Jessica Rohloff]

First of all: Yay! Thanks for starting a thread! And for joining the network!

I think one way the tech community can make a difference when it comes to festivals and art-related events would be to create a calendar that aggregates information about upcoming events throughout the year. Other than that, the only thing that comes to mind is e-commerce: merchandise sales before/after the event, and possibly even helping with POS technology so vendors can accept credit card payments on site.

What did you have in mind when you posted this discussion thread? Do you see a need to improve the festival experience? Is there something that needs to be fixed? Just curious.

And, for the record, I attended both CampFiber and Festivals Acadiens et Creoles. They made for two fantastic weekends in Lafayette, and I can't wait to come back! Anyone coming to NOLA for Voodoo Fest? Let us know! :)