Art audiences, supporters, and patrons are all vital to a healthy arts and culture sector. This blog series will highlight some of the people who make the arts work in Summit County. Today we hear from Edwin Hubbard, Jr. of the Akron Urban League. (Have somebody you want to nominate for the spotlight? Reach out to becky@ampstrategy.com.)

What was your first introduction to arts and culture in Summit County?
My first introduction to arts/culture in Summit County was just last year through Leadership Akron’s Signature Class #35 “Arts & Culture Day.” We had had an opportunity to visit the Akron Art Museum, Stan Hywet Gardens, and  The Civic where I was absolutely blown away by learning just how much Summit County has to offer!

How do the arts in Summit County impact your life?
The Arts in Summit County impact my life greatly. From taking my family to Stan Hywet and the Akron Children’s Museum to enjoying jazz concerts at EJ Thomas Hall, the arts for me make Akron a more desirable place to work and socialize.

What artist or arts organization do you wish more people knew about?
I don’t have a specific person or organization to reference, but I wish people were a lot more supportive of the arts in general.

What is a “can’t miss” Summit County arts experience?
One of my favorite experiences that my family and I do every year is go to Szlay’s Farm, buy apple cider, apple butter, fresh fruit in custard ice cream and take pictures in front of the pumpkins. Live music is being played, ears of corn, lemonade and ice cream is being sold and families are enjoying themselves. Definitely a special tradition for us.