Grayson Butler
Arts Management and Entrepreneurship (MA), College of Performing Arts
I am a published poet, playwright, professional actor, military role-player, and visual artist whose various art media explore philosophy, theology, anthropology, and social justice issues. My work has been published in numerous literary magazines, including Z Publishing’s Anthology of Emerging Writers, and since 2014, I have worked as an actor, instructor, and observer-controller/trainer for the military training and PTSD prevention program, Squad Overmatch. My venture, “Art Lab,” emerged from my work as a grief facilitator for New Hope for Kids, which exposed grieving youth to creative ways to cope, and work with other organizations which supplied art supplies to the homeless, underprivileged community. I am currently directing and hosting a series of creative workshops and open protests with the Civic Media Center of Gainesville; these free events provide a creative space for artists of all media and backgrounds to come together and share their voices on social injustices. I hold a BFA in Creative Writing, minoring in Philosophy and Religion, from the University of the Arts.
What is the unmet social or environmental need you intend to address?
My venture provides awareness of local art events using an online database of resources, connects the low-income community with creative mentors, and raises funds for art events in communities lacking artistic outlets.
What most excites you about participating in the Impact Entrepreneurship Fellowship?
l am extremely excited to be working with different majors with diverse skillsets, as well as to be building and developing my ideas into the culmination of Venture Lab.
What most excites you about Impact Entrepreneurship in general?
I am very eager to be learning from mentors and working experts who will provide real-world wisdom, and to manifest their guidance into pushing my venture to its strongest and most impactful reality.
Where do you think you need the most support regarding your venture concept?
I greatly anticipate gaining access to potential partners and investors through mentorship advice, insight and feedback.