About Us
MISSION
A Glantz Incorporated is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization dedicated to improving the well-being and economic welfare of the local artistic community by providing opportunities through curated programming.
Who Are We?
We are tinkerers, creatives, dreamers, intellects, movers, & shakers journeying to inspire, indulge and invigorate.
Vision
In our pursuit to contribute to the art world, we envision ourselves as a steadfast stepping stone for artists and industry workers at every stage of their career path. We aim to serve local musicians, production companies, independent venues, and community vendors, contributing to the industry's well-being and economic welfare one event and program at a time, at the grassroots level.
Purpose
Our purpose is to facilitate a safe space where guests can consciously, freely indulge, and invigorate themselves in a local, grassroots, and independent event setting.
Strategy
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Provide a platform for independent, local artists to professionally showcase their work, connect with other artists, and be a stepping stone to achieve economic growth.
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Create a supportive and inclusive environment for people to explore their creativity and connect with nature.
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Inspire positive wellness practices through programming of workshops, seminars, and classes.
Our Team
Somewhere between a mix of friends, acquaintances, family, co-workers and strangers - we've found community and purpose.
Ashley Glantz
Executive Director
Clay Letson
Art Director
Brooke Banta
Music Director
Emma Dilemma
Volunteer Director
Bailey Murphy
Site Ops Director
Rebekah Flint
Marketing Director
Support Us
Donate Today
Lend Your Light
Your generous donation goes directly to supporting our talented musicians, dedicated healers, and inspiring artists. Together, we can ensure that the art community continues to thrive through vibrant performances, holistic healing, and creative expression. Every contribution helps illuminate the path for a brighter, more artistic future.
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The Challenges
Lower Household Income
The average household income in New Orleans is notably lower than the national average. According to recent data, the median household income in New Orleans is approximately $41,000, compared to the national median of around $70,000. This income disparity reflects broader economic challenges faced by many residents, including higher poverty rates and limited access to high-paying jobs.
Gig Economy and Creative Workforce
A significant portion of New Orleans' workforce is engaged in the gig economy, particularly among the city's vibrant creative community. Artists, musicians, and performers often rely on freelance and contract work, which, while offering flexibility, also leads to financial instability. This economic precarity can result in inconsistent income, lack of benefits such as health insurance and retirement savings, and increased stress, all of which negatively impact mental and emotional health.
Impact on Mental and Emotional Health
The instability inherent in gig work contributes to heightened levels of anxiety and depression. Without a steady income, many individuals face challenges in meeting basic needs, which exacerbates stress and creates a cycle of economic and emotional hardship. The lack of financial security can make it difficult for individuals to plan for the future or invest in personal development, further perpetuating instability.
Transplant Population
A significant portion of New Orleans' population consists of transplants—people who have moved to the city from other parts of the country. This influx is driven by the city's unique cultural appeal, opportunities in the arts, and the vibrant lifestyle it offers. While this diversity enriches the city's cultural fabric, it also presents challenges in terms of community cohesion and support networks. Transplants often lack the family and social support systems that long-term residents may have, which can contribute to feelings of isolation and impact their mental health.
History of the Organization
In late 2018, Ashley Glantz founded a small South Florida production company, which gained its start with a 2019 Art Basel pre-party. This eclectic event in Wynwood featured bass music, live art, immersive visuals, and Caribbean cuisine, creating a unique oasis space. The company then collaborated with Where I’m Bound Folk Festival in West Palm Beach, hosting hometown acts on two stages at Elizabeth Avenue Station.
Following these successes, Ashley Glantz became a Special Events Coordinator for the House of Blues in New Orleans. When the pandemic led to the closure of HOB in April, Ashley seized the opportunity to transform A Glantz into a 501(c)(3) organization, dedicated to fostering the arts in New Orleans. Shortly after, Ashley met Dr. Tina Thomas, a renowned author and motivational speaker specializing in self-development. Dr. Thomas, known for her innovative programs and breakthroughs in psychology, brought a transformative wellness element to A Glantz's vision.
Today, A Glantz continues to thrive as a fruitful organization, actively contributing to the health and growth of our vibrant crescent city.
Our Programs
A Glantz's three main programs include Moonshadow Festival, a weekend-long, overnight camping event that inspires positive social change through independent, local artists who showcase their work through installations, classes, performances, seminars, and much more. Moonshadow Festival features a diverse blend of music genres from local independent talent and includes a designated sanctuary area for wellness activities such as mindfulness workshops, yoga classes, and self-development seminars.
Our second program is called Behind the Curtain and it’s a pop-up event series featuring open mic nights that strengthens the community's sense of well-being through engagement and connection.
Orchid Orchard, our third program, serves as a pro-bono consulting service tailored to elevate artists in their journey toward a thriving art career. Functioning as a catalyst for economic well-being, Orchid Orchard stands as a robust stepping stone, providing valuable support for artists and industry professionals at any stage of their career trajectory.
Together, these programs reflect A Glantz Incorporated's commitment to promoting well-being, positive social change, and economic welfare within the local artistic community.
Artistic Showcase
- Platform Expansion: Moonshadow Festival continues its commitment to showcasing the work of 100 independent, local artists annually, providing a unique opportunity for exposure and connection.
Mental and Emotional Wellness
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Tranquil Environment: The 88-acre property in Abita Springs offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of the city, creating an ideal setting for self-reflection and relaxation.
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Wellness Activities: The designated sanctuary area hosts 20 wellness workshops, classes, and seminars, addressing mental health concerns and providing tools for self-care.
Inclusive Community Building
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Open Mic Series: Our year-round Behind the Curtain series continues to strengthen community well-being through engaging open mic nights, providing a safe space for artists to connect, share, and support each other.
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Interactive Experiences: We encourage participation and sparking conversations around mental health, self-expression, and personal growth.
Economic Empowerment Initiatives
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Orchid Orchard Consulting: The pro-bono consulting service expands to offer additional resources, mentorship, and guidance, supporting artists in their pursuit of sustainable careers.
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Marketplace Opportunities: A dedicated area for artists to sell their work, fostering economic growth within the local artistic community.
Key Features
Make a
Difference
Help independent artists by empowering creatives and invigorating our community.
Long-Term Sustainability
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Diversified Funding Sources
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Establish and strengthen partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and sponsors for ongoing financial support.
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Continue crowdfunding campaigns, applying for grants, and exploring premium experiences to maintain financial viability.
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Community Engagement
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Foster a year-round sense of community through regular meet-ups, online forums, and collaborative projects, keeping the spirit of Moonshadow alive between festivals.
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Explore merchandise sales as a consistent revenue stream, offering festival-branded items to enthusiasts throughout the year.
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Continuous Evaluation and Adaptation
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Regularly collect feedback from attendees, artists, and stakeholders to adapt the festival's programming based on evolving needs.
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Track the success of artists post-festival, demonstrating the festival's impact on their careers and the local artistic ecosystem.