Lexington, Kentucky, November 11, 2025
The University of Kentucky prepares for its 8th annual Fish Tank event, showcasing the creativity of student entrepreneurs in the arts. Scheduled for November 18, the event encourages public participation, bridging the gap between academia and the local arts community. Emceed by Harper Oglesby Smith, it emphasizes mentorship and civic engagement, aiming to enhance the cultural development in Lexington through arts innovation.
University of Kentucky’s Fish Tank Event Boosts Arts Innovation
Engaging local entrepreneurs and community members in arts leadership
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky is gearing up for its 8th annual Fish Tank: Emerging Entrepreneurs in the Arts, an event that not only showcases the innovative spirit of its students but also strengthens the connection between the academic and entrepreneurial communities in Lexington. Scheduled for November 18, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Awesome Inc., this year’s event promises to shine a light on the vibrancy of local talent and creativity.
Fish Tank embodies the spirit of civic engagement, allowing students from the Arts Entrepreneurship course to pitch their ideas to a panel of experienced judges. This format promotes hands-on learning and opportunities for leadership in the arts sector, all while minimizing bureaucratic hurdles that can often stifle creativity. The public is invited to attend, fostering a sense of shared investment in the future of Lexington’s arts scene.
What is Fish Tank?
Fish Tank is an experiential learning platform where students from the University of Kentucky’s Department of Arts Administration present their arts entrepreneurship project ideas. During this competitive event, students have five minutes to pitch their concepts, followed by a Q&A session with a panel of judges who have expertise in entrepreneurship, social innovation, and entertainment management.
Event Details
The event will be emceed by UK alum Harper Oglesby Smith, who has firsthand experience in navigating the challenges of pitching ideas in a virtual environment due to previous pandemic restrictions. Her return as emcee demonstrates the cyclical nature of mentorship and the continuing legacy of alumni supporting current students, further fostering community growth.
Dr. Rachel Shane, Chair of the Department of Arts Administration, accents the importance of Fish Tank in allowing students to take creative risks. This commitment to entrepreneurial thinking encourages students to develop their concepts while gaining confidence in their abilities to lead within the arts sector.
The Role of Community and Collaboration
Fish Tank serves as a bridge between the University of Kentucky’s arts community and Lexington’s local economy, emphasizing the critical role of the arts in driving innovation and cultural development. This collaborative effort includes partnerships with the College of Fine Arts, the UK Department of Arts Administration, Thought Partner, and Awesome Inc., illustrating how local businesses and educational institutions can work together to create growth opportunities.
Registration and Public Participation
As an event focused on community engagement, Fish Tank is free and open to the public. However, due to limited seating, registration is required. This accessibility invites a diverse audience, encouraging local citizens to engage with emerging artists and concepts that have the potential to enrich the local culture and economy.
Conclusion: Support Innovation in the Arts
The 8th annual Fish Tank is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of creativity, community, and collaborative spirit. By participating in events like this, local residents not only witness the next generation of artists but also contribute to the fostering of a vibrant community atmosphere. Lexington’s commitment to arts innovation reinforces the belief that local initiatives, when supported by civic engagement, can significantly impact cultural growth and development.
FAQ
- What is Fish Tank: Emerging Entrepreneurs in the Arts?
- Fish Tank is an experiential learning event hosted by the University of Kentucky’s Department of Arts Administration, where students present their arts entrepreneurship project ideas to a panel of judges, faculty, peers, and community members. Each team has five minutes to pitch their concept, followed by a Q&A session with judges experienced in entrepreneurship, social innovation, and entertainment management.
- When and where is the 8th annual Fish Tank event taking place?
- The 8th annual Fish Tank event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Awesome Inc., located at 348 E. Main St., Lexington, Kentucky.
- Who is emceeing the event?
- The event is emceed by UK alum Harper Oglesby Smith, who returns to Fish Tank after her own experience as an undergraduate arts administration major in 2020.
- Is the event open to the public?
- Yes, the event is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating.
- Who are the partners involved in organizing Fish Tank?
- Fish Tank is a partnership between the University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts, UK Department of Arts Administration, Thought Partner, and Awesome Inc.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 8th annual Fish Tank: Emerging Entrepreneurs in the Arts |
| Date and Time | Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7 p.m. |
| Location | Awesome Inc., 348 E. Main St., Lexington, Kentucky |
| Emcee | UK alum Harper Oglesby Smith |
| Registration | Free and open to the public; registration required due to limited seating |
| Organizers | University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts, UK Department of Arts Administration, Thought Partner, and Awesome Inc. |
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