Today we’d like to introduce you to Akron Black Artist Guild.
Hello Akron Black Artist Guild, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The Akron Black Artist Guild was first conceived by Dara Harper in late 2020 during a conversation with ArtsNow as part of the Akron Cultural Plan. What started as a grain of an idea has expanded to a collective of working artists who although we’ve evolved over time, the core is still the same – to amplify and advocate for Black artists, makers, and designers in Akron.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
As with any new group or organization, there’s always a few bumps in the road. Many of us have never done anything quite like this before, so we’re learning as we go and give each other grace as we make mistakes. When taking on bigger projects, we’ve learned that we need to be very clear with ourselves and our partners about what capacity looks like. This is the best way to make sure that everyone is on the same page and we’re able to meet our goals successfully. At the end of the day, we’re all deeply passionate about the arts in Akron and how they are essential for our future.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Akron Black Artist Guild is a collective that supports Black artists in Akron. We achieve this goal by building awareness, providing educational opportunities, and celebrating others. Our main programs include:
-Outlined in Black, a biennial art show that showcases Akron’s talent,
-Reimagine Fellowship, a fellowship that connects artists with neighborhoods to showcase how art can inspire community,
-Arts + Park Collective, commissioned artists to create a series of nature-inspired performances, workshops, and demonstrations,
-Sponsor entrepreneurs for Crafty Mart’s Maker Session,
-Artist Workshops & Speaker,
-Work with organizations that are looking to incorporate more Black artists in their art shows and exhibits,
-And more.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
We believe that the Covid-19 crisis has really highlighted the importance of the arts in the community. When people were locked down for months on end, they turned to the arts as a salve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.abaguild.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abaguild/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akronblackartistguild
Image Credits
Talia Hodge
Ashton Blake
One other photographer
