A LETTER FROM OUR FOUNDING DIRECTOR, Neda Abghari

May 1, 2020

Dear Friends,

This year The Creatives Project (TCP) turns 10!

In our first decade we brought our city together to support thousands of creative enthusiasts, youth, and elders through award winning residencies, exhibitions, and educational programs. We established TCP as Atlanta’s first residency to provide free studios and subsidized housing to artists in need, awarding them hundreds of thousands of square feet of space since our inception. I am humbled by the generosity that made it all possible and extremely touched by the beautiful love letter we have written to our beloved ATL over the years. We put our faith in each other with passions aligned and I’m so very proud of what we have accomplished.

September 7th is TCP’s official birthday. I have one single wish: for us to make the next 10 years even more stellar by dreaming bigger, loving harder, and serving greater under the leadership of a new Executive Director!

That’s right… With the full and enthusiastic support of our amazing board of directors and program partners, the time has come for me to say farewell.

The truth is, a lot has changed for me since 2011. Many of you know I fought a battle with cancer. Going through the journey I learned a few things about myself; I’m great at running on empty (until I’m not), I’m not so good at setting boundaries (I love you and the work too much), and surprisingly, I’m not superhuman (my body has its limits and it will stop me in my tracks). July 1st I plan to reach my 5 year cancer-free milestone and again each and every year there after. I also plan to continue building a legacy for my daughter (well into my 90’s) by honoring these victories through the lessons learned.

Taking this space for myself is not easy but will ensure the beauty and foundation we’ve built together for TCP will continue to grow untethered, unblocked and unlimited. I know with every healthy cell in my being, that somewhere out there an amazing human is ready and inspired to take flight with TCP in tow, soar to greater heights and rush towards new adventures with our continued support!

So what’s next? I will always continue to connect, curate, and create. It is in my heart. It is in my blood. It is who I am. This summer I will begin to step back from TCP and simply shift the vehicle through which I deliver these bundles to the world. Working as an independent curator and program consultant will allow me the flexibility and space to also pour into my body, my child, and my family as I continue to serve my community through arts and culture clients. I’m so extremely excited about this next chapter. I hope you will join me and call on me for support!

Now back to that one birthday wish! Let’s do this ATL! Help spread the good word far and wide for our national search for an Executive Director to help ensure The Creatives Project’s 10th birthday is extra extra special!

I thank each of you from the bottom of my heart for your partnership, trust and support. It has been such a great honor to know you and to serve you through The Creatives Project.

In Gratitude,

Neda Abghari,

Founding Executive Director, The Creatives Project