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Creating Community: BIPOC Emerging Artists Foster Connections

A group of women gathered monthly in the gallery to write. Under the guidance of local poet Jamie Lee Elizabeth, they explored Black womanhood, friendship, love, heartbreak, grief, and joy — and made connections — in ways they hadn’t before.

These meaningful creative experiences were as part of a unique six-month residency for early career Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) artists at Kennedy Heights Arts Center. The Vibrancy Fellowship aims to meet the needs of emerging artists in an environment that empowers them to take risks and explore new creative challenges while deepening their community practice.

Designed to facilitate collaboration and mutual mentoring, the fellowship enriches both the artist and the community.

“We find when we invest in artists, it benefits everyone as they pour their creative gifts right back into the community,” remarks Ellen Muse, KHAC’s Executive Director.

For Jamie-Lee, this experience was her first time leading a project as an independent artist.

“Engaging with the community impacted my creative practice by allowing me to see the possibilities and potential of my work,” remarked Jamie Lee. “It helped me feel confident in creating brave spaces – and to see that these spaces are necessary in our world.”

Just as a key unlocks a door, the arts unlock a world of endless possibilities.

We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, should have the opportunity to experience the transformative influence of the arts. That’s why Kennedy Heights Arts Center supports and advances the work of underrepresented emerging artists to promote diverse participation in the arts.

You hold the key.

Please consider a donation to Kennedy Heights Arts Center to help unlock the doors to creativity for thousands of community members each year. With your support, 100 percent of our programs will remain accessible to everyone.

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