Arts Management
Biography
My name is Adiza Jibril and I am 28 years old. I grew up in Staten Island, New York before moving to Arlington, Virginia in 2013 after undergrad to pursue my current career. I am a singer in The United States Army Band and have been serving and performing with that organization for almost seven years. I started my M.A. in Arts Management in the Fall of 2019.
Why did you choose Arts Management at Mason?
I chose Arts Management at Mason because I was ready to explore the world of the performing arts outside of actually being the one on stage. When I considered the location, the dynamic nature of George Mason University, and the ability to pursue this degree alongside my professional career, this program seemed perfect for me.
What makes you passionate about the arts?
Ever since I was a child, nothing quite grabbed my attention like the arts did. I love the act and the art of story telling, and that to me is what the arts are about. It's so beautifully human, our almost spiritual need to tell each other about what it is like to walk through the world. Whether it be though music, dance, visual arts, etc., all of it comes back to the need to tell a story. To let others know that we were here, and to know that we shared in experiences together. I believe our ability to create art is one of our best qualities as human beings. It's hard not to be passionate about that.
What area of arts management are you interested in and why?
I am very interested in the areas of diversity and inclusion when it comes to the arts, specifically bringing arts access to young people in underserved communities. When I think about all of the opportunities I was granted as a kid that led me to where I am today, I am so grateful and believe it is my duty to continue to pay that gift forward. I also have a newly developed interest in the world of special events, and am hoping to get to explore that more as I move through this program.
What is your favorite art activity in the area and why?
I love treating myself to performances at the Kennedy Center. I feel very fortunate to live just a few minutes drive away from access to absolutely world class performances.
I also love going and spending an afternoon wandering around the NMAAHC. I've taken all my friends and family who have come to visit DC there, and watching them take in all that museum has to offer is something truly special.
What was a favorite project or class you've had and why?
I am currently taking Arts & Society and even though that class is a lot of reading and writing, I really enjoy the discussions we have about how the texts translate to our real world experiences in the arts. I've gained so many tools already for considering what roles the arts play in our lives. I am enjoying the challenge of being made to think critically and deeply about how we experience the arts, and the role that arts managers ultimately play in cultivating these experiences.