ABOUT REFINERY ARTS GROUP
Empowering the evolution of the arts and culture landscape, we partner with performing arts groups and developers to craft innovative, sustainable, and dynamic spaces and operational models that fortify the groundwork for inclusive and vibrant arts communities.
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We drive transformative change in the arts sector by providing comprehensive executive searches, strategic planning, and dynamic reorganizations. Our innovative operational plans, sustainable community engagement strategies, and value-aligned leadership development redefine cultural identities and programmatic approaches. From designing spaces to pioneering funding models, we offer holistic solutions for any company interested in creating or reimagining arts spaces. Through tailored leadership intensives, strategic staff planning, and targeted consulting, we empower arts organizations to thrive as enduring and vibrant entities, shaping a resilient future for the arts.
OUR TEAM
Benjamin Williams and Jessica Bashline met in 2014 while working to open a new multi-disciplinary arts center in downtown Manhattan. Together, they have over 20 years of experience in virtually every aspect of performing arts, programmatic development, venue management, and events. After years of independent work, Jessica specialized in theater creation while Benjamin transitioned his theater and design background into managing operations, venues, teams, and producing large-scale events and installations. In 2020, they returned to consulting to impart their expertise to fresh clients. In this challenging new world for arts and communities, Benjamin and Jessica are compelled to help organizations and developers make the most of the exciting opportunity to reimagine and create 21st century arts spaces and programmatic models.
JESSICA BASHLINE
principal consultant
Jessica is a co-founder and Principal Consultant for Refinery Arts Group and an Assistant Professor of Theater at the University of Miami, where she teaches acting and theater creation. She was the Artistic Director and co-founder of Strange Sun Theater, a theater company in New York City dedicated to creating magical new theater that ignites in audiences and artists, the power of possibility. In addition, she was the Consulting Artistic Director of the Sheen Center, when it opened in downtown Manhattan, curating a full season for 2 theaters. Before that she served as the Artistic Director of Wingspan Arts, an arts education company in New York City.
Jessica is an award-winning playwright and freelance theater director whose works delve into complex social themes, particularly women’s experiences and historical narratives. Her solo and ensemble pieces have received accolades, including “Best Storyteller” at the United Solo Festival. Jessica's plays are published by Next Stage Press and available on the New Play Exchange, she has two other books available from Applause books and has written articles for The Journal for American Drama and Theatre.
Jessica holds a BFA from Boston University and an MFA from Goddard College.
Benjamin is a co-founder and Principal Consultant for Refinery Arts Group. Also serving as the Director of Production and Event Operations for a creative production agency, he has a diverse background in theater, design, arts, and consulting.
Benjamin has lead operations for some of New York’s most iconic and recognizable theatrical and event properties, with a focus in venue operations, executive growth, and collaborative team development. Through his work in live performance and events leadership, Benjamin has established effective and efficient targeted processes. Focusing on individual and team growth, he has helped organizations achieve high retention rates, establish values-based foundational structures, and realize both vertical and horizontal scalability, ensuring sustainable footings that allow organizations to confidently grow.
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Benjamin had a 15-year career as a theatrical and event lighting designer, designing over 500 musicals, plays, events, architectural, and art installations. In 2011, he received the Boston Theater Critics Elliot Norton Award for outstanding design of Annie Baker’s The Aliens with Company One Theater Company, in partnership with the Huntington Theater Company of Boston.
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Benjamin holds a a BFA from Florida Southern College and an MFA from Brandeis University.
