This 3 Questions Series offers the chance to learn more about board members, grantees, and longtime supporters of Rhode Island Humanities. In the coming months, we will continue to share these conversations as a window into the people who make up our unique network.
Eric E. Sung (he/him/his)
Professor, Providence College
Lives in Providence
As you join Rhode Island Humanities’ board, what do you find most interesting or exciting about the Council’s work? Or what are you hoping to learn more about through your board service?
I am a firm believer that promoting greater interconnectedness of disciplines leads to improving the quality of community well-being. I am thrilled to learn more about the work of Rhode Island Humanities on interweaving diverse initiatives for the arts, cultural works, health, history, and more to empower the local and regional population.
How do you interact with Rhode Island’s humanities and cultural sector personally and/or professionally? Can you share a favorite program, exhibit, project, performance, screening, or other humanities activity you’ve participated in recently and what you took away from that experience?
I was honored to partner with Rhode Island Humanities for my recent community art exhibition project titled PORTALES: Reimagining the Future. This exhibition presented the variety of ways that artists and organizers in Rhode Island have strengthened our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic and the movement against racial injustice. The exhibit is part of a broader research project on public health, policy, organizing, and the power of art and culture, led by faculty and artists from Providence College. In the spirit of this, the exhibit will be accompanied by a story circle event.
I deeply appreciate all of the programs hosted by Rhode Island Humanities. The one that I feel closest to, both personally and professionally in the current moment, is the RI Civic Health Index. It aligns with my focus as an artist-researcher on the positive impact of artists as storytellers and culture workers on communities’ well-being.
What is it about living in Rhode Island that you find compelling?
Beyond the obvious attractions that RI can offer, I find it compelling to be well-connected among the people and the state. Also, the richness of art and culture motivates me to continue to enjoy living here.
Learn more about Eric and other board members by reading their biographies here.
