History of the organization

In late 2018, Ashley Glantz founded a small South Florida production company, which gained its start with a 2019 Art Basel pre-party. This eclectic event in Wynwood featured bass music, live art, immersive visuals, and Caribbean cuisine, creating a unique oasis space. The company then collaborated with Where I’m Bound Folk Festival in West Palm Beach, hosting hometown acts on two stages at Elizabeth Avenue Station.

 

Following these successes, Ashley Glantz became a Special Events Coordinator for the House of Blues in New Orleans. When the pandemic led to the closure of HOB in April, Ashley seized the opportunity to transform A Glantz into a 501(c)(3) organization, dedicated to fostering the arts in New Orleans. Shortly after, Ashley met Dr. Tina Thomas, a renowned author and motivational speaker specializing in self-development. Dr. Thomas, known for her innovative programs and breakthroughs in psychology, brought a transformative wellness element to A Glantz's vision.

 

Today, A Glantz continues to thrive as a fruitful organization, actively contributing to the health and growth of our vibrant crescent city.

​

​

the challenge to be met

New Orleans is a city that is rich in tradition and culture, with a deep appreciation for music, food, and celebration. However, one challenge that has historically been overlooked in traditional Greater New Orleans gatherings is the issue of mental & emotional health. Moonshadow Festival stands out as a healing-forward and focused event, catering to individuals seeking a deeper connection and a more tranquil and nourishing experience amidst the city's lively celebrations.

​

Programs

A Glantz's three main programs include Moonshadow Festival, a weekend-long, overnight camping event that inspires positive social change through independent, local artists who showcase their work through installations, classes, performances, seminars, and much more. Moonshadow Festival features a diverse blend of music genres from local independent talent and includes a designated sanctuary area for wellness activities such as mindfulness workshops, yoga classes, and self-development seminars.

 

Our second program is called Behind the Curtain and it’s a pop-up event series featuring open mic nights that strengthens the community's sense of well-being through engagement and connection.

Orchid Orchard, our third program, serves as a pro-bono consulting service tailored to elevate artists in their journey toward a thriving art career. Functioning as a catalyst for economic well-being, Orchid Orchard stands as a robust stepping stone, providing valuable support for artists and industry professionals at any stage of their career trajectory.

​

Together, these programs reflect A Glantz Incorporated's commitment to promoting well-being, positive social change, and economic welfare within the local artistic community.

​
 

Key Features

1. Artistic Showcase and Connection Hub:

   • Platform Expansion: Moonshadow Festival continues its commitment to showcasing the work of 100 independent, local artists annually, providing a unique opportunity for exposure and connection.

2. Mental and Emotional Wellness:

   • Tranquil Environment: The 88-acre property in Abita Springs offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of the city, creating an ideal setting for self-reflection and relaxation.

   • Wellness Activities: The designated sanctuary area hosts 20 wellness workshops, classes, and seminars, addressing mental health concerns and providing tools for self-care.

3. Inclusive Community Building:

   • Open Mic Series: Our year-round Behind the Curtain series continues to strengthen community well-being through engaging open mic nights, providing a safe space for artists to connect, share, and support each other.

   • Interactive Experiences: We encourage participation and sparking conversations around mental health, self-expression, and personal growth.

4. Economic Empowerment Initiatives:

   • Orchid Orchard Consulting: The pro-bono consulting service expands to offer additional resources, mentorship, and guidance, supporting artists in their pursuit of sustainable careers.

   • Marketplace Opportunities: A dedicated area for artists to sell their work, fostering economic growth within the local artistic community.
      

Long-Term Sustainability

1. Diversified Funding Sources:

   • Establish and strengthen partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and sponsors for ongoing financial support.

   • Continue crowdfunding campaigns, applying for grants, and exploring premium experiences to maintain financial viability.

2. Community Engagement:

   • Foster a year-round sense of community through regular meet-ups, online forums, and collaborative projects, keeping the spirit of Moonshadow alive between festivals.

   • Explore merchandise sales as a consistent revenue stream, offering festival-branded items to enthusiasts throughout the year.

3. Continuous Evaluation and Adaptation:

   • Regularly collect feedback from attendees, artists, and stakeholders to adapt the festival's programming based on evolving needs.

   • Track the success of artists post-festival, demonstrating the festival's impact on their careers and the local artistic ecosystem.