Five Rivers Arts Alliance will host a conversation with Julie Richard, executive director of the Maine Arts Commission, on Tuesday, April 1 at 7 p.m. at The Frontier in Brunswick.

Richard will speak about the strategic cultural planning effort currently underway at the Maine Arts Commission as well as the revamped grants program that the commission is offering.

“I am looking for ideas and feedback from local artists to be included in the Commission’s strategic plan,” Richard said.

She will also address the role of local arts councils and the Maine Arts Commission in serving the cultural needs of communities throughout the state.

This meeting with Richard is open to the public for a $5 admission charge and free to all Five Rivers Art Alliance members.

Before joining the Maine Arts Commission, Richard held the position of president and CEO of the West Valley Arts Council in the West Valley of Phoenix, Ariz. Prior to that she was the executive director of the Metropolitan Arts Council in Greenville, S.C. She has extensive experience in development, strategic planning, arts education and organizational development.

New memberships will be available at the event. Five Rivers Arts Alliance’s mission is to strengthen Maine communities through the arts, by increasing awareness, knowledge, education, appreciation, participation and support for the arts and other cultural activities.

The Frontier will host a happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. before the meeting with special discounts available for those attending the event. The Frontier is at 14 Maine Street, Brunswick in the Fort Andross building.