ArtsJournal: Arts, Culture, Ideas

Good morning

If you’ve read ArtsJournal for very long, you know I have a fascination with stories that explore how creativity works. This story from the magazine Psyche reports on a study that focused on the kinds of details people notice in the things around them. We all of us, of course, take in way more information than we can process. So our brains get good at prioritizing what’s important (and what’s not). It turns out that highly creative people notice (and presumably remember) different kinds of details than those who are considered less creative. Read more here. More highlights from today’s haul:

  • Benny Golson, Master Jazz Saxophonist and Composer, Dies at 95
    Benny Golson, the legendary jazz saxophonist and composer, passed away at 95. Known for his contributions to bebop and hard bop, Golson’s influence on jazz, especially through his work with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and The Jazztet, is unmatched. Read more on WRTI.
  • Stone-Eating Lichens Threaten Iran’s Ancient Persepolis
    The ancient ruins of Persepolis are being slowly eroded by stone-eating lichens, which dissolve the minerals in the stones. These biological threats are posing serious risks to one of Iran’s most iconic historical sites. Read more on MSN.
  • Firings at Dallas Black Dance Theatre Spark Debate on Generational Culture Clash
    The firing of the entire main company of dancers at Dallas Black Dance Theatre has sparked controversy, with allegations of union-busting and outdated management practices. Read more on KERA.
  • Visitorship at French Heritage Sites Returns to Pre-COVID Levels
    French heritage sites have seen a significant resurgence in visitors, with numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Read more on ARTnews.
  • 40% of U.S. Publishing Jobs Have Disappeared Since 1997
    A new report reveals that 40% of jobs in U.S. book publishing have vanished over the past 30 years, sparking concerns about the future of the industry. Read more on Publishers Weekly.

As usual, jump down to see the rest of today’s stories. Know someone who might like AJ? Send them this link to subscribe. Or visit the website to see all the stories we collect.

See you tomorrow.

Doug

Latest Stories

An Ethnomusicologist Analyzes Eartha Kitt’s “Santa Baby”

Prof. Michael O’Brien discusses why we listen to so many of the same songs year after year, the unusual appeal of “Santa Baby,” and why Eartha Kitt’s version is so much better than Madonna’s (or anyone else’s). - The Post and Courier (Charleston)

The Woeful State Of Arts PR. Here’s Why It Matters

On the inside of my job, lousy PR is one of the biggest signs that an institution is struggling. Outreach goes ignored, follow-up is late and flustered, and media events suffer. - Broad Street Review

The Collective Who’s Transforming Ballet In France’s Second City

“(LA)HORDE is a choreographic collective running the National Ballet of Marseille and rewriting the ballet rulebook for a new era. Their work blends classical techniques with surprising influences, from queer nightlife to the political history of social dance.” - BBC (video)

Premium

Fall 2026 Applications Open for MS in Leadership for Creative Enterprises

Earn your Master’s in One Year. Northwestern University’s MS in Leadership for Creative Enterprises (MSLCE) program develops leaders across Entertainment, Media and the Arts.

Schubert Club seeks Artistic and Executive Director

The next Artistic and Executive Director will shape Schubert Club at a moment of organizational strength and artistic vitality.

Improv In Real Life Podcast

This podcast is about the art of improv can help us navigate the speed of life: skills, philosophy and the research that supports it.

Managing Director- The Old Globe working with Management Consultants for the Arts

The Old Globe is seeking a Managing Director to co-lead the company as it looks ahead to the landmark celebration of its 100th anniversary

Classifieds

Director of Marketing and Communications – Broadway in Hollywood & the Hollywood Pantages Theatre via TOC Arts Partners

Broadway in Hollywood and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre seek an energetic, driven, and forward-thinking Director of Marketing and Communications.

Music Director, Dance, Vassar College

The Music Director is the key resource for the students, faculty and staff of the Vassar College Dance Department.

Director of Development for Texas Ballet Theater

Texas Ballet Theater seeks a creative, hands-on Development Director to lead annual fundraising efforts and prepare for a capital campaign.

PEM, Director of Exhibition Design

Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, MA, seeks a Director of Exhibition Design to lead its Exhibition Design Department

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Arts Administration

The Arts Administration program at Elon University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position that begins in August 2026.

Executive Director, Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach

The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach (CMSPB) is known for performances and educational programs of the highest artistic merit.

Apply Now: Canada’s National Arts Centre Mentorship Program

A paid side-by-side opportunity in Ottawa, Canada for emerging and early-career orchestral musicians, conductors and administrators. International applicants welcome.
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