Ringling College of Art and Design President, Dr. Larry Thompson, shared his definition of a “creative” at the eMerge arts rally this past weekend and encouraged collaboration as Sarasota County builds its reputation as a creative coast. Citing the importance of an overarching artistic psychology in today’s economy, Dr. Thompson drew rousing cheers from a crowd of students, professionals, and members of the media.

Dr. Thompson was also the first participant in the Creative Currency campaign, exchanging a $100 bill for 100 US Golden dollars coins. Artists, creatives and others employed by Sarasota County’s arts, cultural and creative industries are encouraged to participate in the campaign by paying for goods and services with US Presidential gold dollar coins during the month of May. The campaign’s goal is to generate a widespread community dialog and tangibly illustrate the impact of  the arts, culture and creativity on the local economy.

US Presidential gold coins are available for exchange at the downtown Sarasota branch of SunTrust bank starting Monday, May 11.