Platform 5280 , Biennial of the Americas

Platform 5280 The Denver Biennial of the Americas has transformed into a platform about global ideas, art and people.

Following Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper’s agenda for economic growth vis-à-vis the arts, culture and design, Platform 5280, Biennial of Americas is set to prompt economic growth as well as bring world class thought leaders and art.

The board of directors for the Biennial consists of 20 members including Erin M. Trapp, Ph.D., Vice President of Advancement and External Relations and Executive Director of the Foundation at Metropolitan State College of Denver.  Ms. Trapp explained that the Biennial is Denver’s way of creating a cultural brand, building upon the established sport teams.

The highlight of Denver’s Biennial is that it looks to art and cultural of the Americas where traditionally Europe and Asia are considered.  The event engages business persons who often times are the demographic supporting the arts.

Abaseh Mirvali is the Executive Director, CEO and Comisaria of Platform 5280 and was recently interviewed by Jan Mazotti of ICOSA.  Ms. Mirvali’s background in contemporary art as a juror juxtaposed to her interest and work in public policy sparks a new type of biennial for Denver, Colorado.  The title of a comisaria is unique and translates to one that works from the “nitty gritty of putting the program together but then also oversees other components of it from marketing to organization,” Mivali.  This event is the epitome of “think globally but act locally,” said Mirvali.  During the interview with ICOSA Mirvali speaks of the process of becoming part of Platform 5280 with a bit of reminiscence, showing the dedication she has to her work.  To watch the interview on Driving Force Radio, visit; http://youtu.be/ccsoqXW7Q00.

An impressive board of directors are involved with Platform 5280 ensuring it ssuccess, including;

Mike Fries, Chairman President and CEO, Liberty Global Inc.

Thomas Williams, Vice Chairman President and CEO, Williams Group, LLC

Frederick B. Taylor, Treasurer President and Co-Founder, Northstar Investment Advisors, LLC

Rick Pederson, Secretary Chairman, NFK Frederick Ross

Don Bailey Chairman and CEO, Triton Investmen tCompany

Patricia Barela Rivera Owner, PBR Solutions

Gayle Dendinger President and CEO, CAP Logistics and Publisher, ICOSA Magazine

Verónica Figoli Director of Outreach and Engagement, Piton Foundation

Amy Harmon Founder and Owner, Urban Market Partners, LLC

Walter Isenberg Co-Founder,President and CEO, Sage Hospitality

Bruce James Managing Partner, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP

Susan McIntire CH2M Hill

Kent Rice Executive Director, Arts & Venues Denver

Hassan Salem President, U.S. Bank, Colorado

Erin Trapp Vice President of Advancement and External Relations, Metropolitan State College of Denver

Michael Van Gilder CEO,Van Gilder Insurance Corporation

Roxane White Chief of Staff, Governor Hickenlooper

Edward (Ted) White Partner, Moye White, LLP

EX OFFICIO Jayne Buck Vice President of Tourism, Visit Denver

Jamie Van Leeuwen, PHD: Senior Advisor, Governor Hickenlooper

“Thereis a natural affinity for us to go tie into Canada and Mexico,” said Publisher of ICOSA Gayle Dendinger.  In kind services offered in collaboration with community organizations, education, governmentand businesses are what bring about Denver’s best interests and get it done.

Opinions vary to how this biennial can be a model.  Dendinger believes it can be exported to other states while Mirvali envisions best practices within relative perspective creating a dialogue then prompting action.

The platform can be used to spark change in one’s own community.  Take ownership and sponsor or volunteer with Platform 5280, Biennial of the Americas.  For more information about Platform 5280, visit; www.platform5280org.