The Institute for Culture in the Service of Community Sustainability (ICSCS) launched on February 18, 2011 with a festive Gala. The space at 3LD was filled with people who support the arts.

ICSCS (pronounced "Isis") has been established to articulate the value and benefit of the arts. They believe that the standard economic numbers that are collected do not capture the true measure of the value and impact of culture on community health. They feel that the arts are an indicator of the wider community's health, rather like a canary in a mine. ICSCS is trying to establish a two way conversation that will use data-driven strategies to encourage investment in the arts, for the ultimate purpose of fostering large scale objectives such as democracy and peace. ICSCS is a think tank pursuing these goals by conducting objective research that begins with a thesis framed by social justice.

One thing is certain, ICSCS proved they can throw a great party. The food and beverages were sustaining. The band was talented and versatile. The dancing was excellent.

All in all, the ICSCS Gala was a promising start for a worthy endeavor.

You can learn more about ICSCS at www.artspolicynow.org.

ICSCS Gala Gala attendees enjoy an open bar sponsored by Georges Duboeuf Macon-Villages 2009, Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais-Villages 2009, Stoli, Bombay Sapphire and Brooklyn Brewery. Photo © & courtesy of Susan Buck

ICSCS Gala Paul Nagle, Executive Director of ICSCS, introduces the goals of the new Institute (and uses 3D technology to duplicate his interns). Photo © & courtesy of Susan Buck

ICSCS Gala Many conversations. You could count them, but it would take a while. Photo © & courtesy of Susan Buck

ICSCS Gala Serious dancing for a serious Institute. Definitely a good start. Photo © & courtesy of Susan Buck