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The inaugural Ebon Dooley Arts & Justice Awards, named after the ArtsXchange’s legendary founder, will highlight four artists and activists using their respective platforms to advance access and justice. On this occasion, we gladly honor Bobbie Paul with our Bridge Builder Award. As a theatre artist and bridge builder, Bobbie Paul has always added her artistic touch to the causes and events that she supports. As Executive Director of WAND (Women’s Action for New Directions), Paul grew the organization to become Georgia WAND and defined its three areas of concentration across the state: Peace in Action, Environmental Justice, and Empowering People to Act Politically. We celebrate Bobbie’s ability to build bridges between diverse communities across the state and drew attention to environmental impacts on communities located near nuclear facilities in and near Georgia. The ArtsXchange believes that bridge-builders should demonstrate a proven ability to help people representing differing entities/issues/interests to (1) gain a better understanding of each other’s work and how this work contributes to reaching their major goals, (2) identify commonalities and how each party’s work can contribute to shared goals, and (3) develop ways to work together that advance these shared goals as well as the work of each party. We can’t think of anyone who embodies these qualities more than Bobbie Paul. We congratulate Bobbie on her life of service as an artist and bridge builder across the state and beyond, and we invite you to celebrate with us as we honor her at REVIVAL! Grab your tickets here.

By: Courtney Brooks December 31st, 2019 As I sit in my office, I am reflecting on today, the last day of the year, the last day of the decade, and what was supposed to be my last day at ArtsXchange. My thoughts are grateful, yet my heart is heavy and my spirit is floating in a space of endless possibilities. Fortunately, I have a few more weeks to share my humble presence and conclude my journey as the Jack Sinclair Gallery curator and director. Just enough time to close out the solo exhibition, Heavy Clouds from multidisciplinary artist, C. Flux Sing. The Heart of the Matter is, I have been Above the Clouds, Between the Blues, deep with Frustration and yet feel a sense of Relief with my journey here at the ArtsXchange. This current work on display is not coincidental. It was planned since the first exhibit, The Art of Values, where C. Flux Sing was one of nineteen featured artists. I personally relate to the various titles given in C.Flux’s first solo show. Each representing every mood I have experienced thus far. The Heart of the Matter is, I have been Above the Clouds, Between the Blues, deep with Frustration and yet feel a sense of Relief with my journey closing here at the ArtsXchange. Heavy Clouds serves as the ninth art exhibition held in the gallery since the new location opened in January of 2019. The number nine is said to represent wisdom and responsibility, to serve humanity by making the world a better place. My curatorial path with the Southeast Community Cultural Center has delivered just that. Within 12 months of back to back gallery exhibitions, community events, social gatherings, workshops and other programming, I have been blessed to connect with multiple generations, creatives, local talent, support small businesses and other non profit organizations. Seeing the smiles on guests face, hearing testimonies of their experience or asking children with faces that resemble mine, what their favorite art piece in gallery was a joyful and much appreciated. Furthermore, I was proud to coordinate Herstory, an all women’s vendors market held for Women’s Month in March. Establishing relationships with guest artists like Corrina Sephora, who brought gun awareness and shared a metal forging workshop, turning rifles into flowers and handguns into dreamcatchers. Spending time with ArtsXchange studio artist activist, Charmaine Minnifield, whom blessed us with her solo exhibit, Ritual that dressed the gallery in candles and the calmness of blue and white paintings. Providing a space of healing, an alter to praise ancestors and the Most High. A special space to celebrate the lives of beloved community members who transitioned this year, (Rest in Power, Tanya Crooms and Baba Melvin “FluteMan” Cooper.) It was also those summer mornings where I witnessed and participated in Brandon Sadler’s artistic skills. He kindly shared his knowledge and tea sessions in his studio with youth volunteers who helped paint the out door mural, These Seeds Will Grow As You Do. Highlighting the center’s community garden, donated by HABESHA INC. I believe the message is to keep going, to keep learning, keep being a visionary that teaches us to help one another. The month of August came fast and I was honored to help coordinate and participate as an artist, with guest curator, Kimberly Stewart. Her 2nd annual art show, The Reclamation Project shared a visual celebration of Black women's beauty, spirituality, sensuality, and sexuality. A panel discussion closed out the show with a room full of guests held in the Paul Robeson theater, commentary about the perceived self-image and worth as women was open and well received. (Bonus - my artwork first time displayed and sold in the gallery.) I was entering into an arena I didn’t know and this would not be the first or the last time the grace of God would see me through challenges. As the seasons changed, I quickly learned to muster up every skill I have gained in my career to help guide me through unexpected timeframes, deadlines, pop up events, committee meetings, research, teamwork and customer service ahead of me. It was time for the annual fundraising gala, Renaissance, the Ebon Dooley award ceremony and Atlanta Collects exhibition. I was entering into an arena I didn’t know and this would not be the first or the last time the grace of God would see me through challenges. I was under a lot pressure, personally and professionally. However, I am so grateful for the support given. Special thanks to the gallery committee, Lisa Tuttle and Ric Washington, your wisdom will always follow me. We are all connected in some way, and it will continue circles back around. Atlanta Collects Exhibit was classic and carried the most valued work to date in the Jack Sinclair Gallery. Grateful for guest curator, Mike Harris and the 10 notable fine art collectors who trusted us with over 50 artists works. A Collectors Talk and Artist Talk hosted by Jamaal Barber of Studio Noize Podcast, shared gems and history lessons with each piece. A limited edition catalog was also created to archive its importance. I was taught a deeper appreciation and understanding for investing and collecting masters, and emerging artists works. . Artists like, Kara Walker and Kevin Cole, Ruby Chavez and Kehinde Wiley, Shanequa Gay and Sam Gilliam, Jacob Lawerence, Tawny Chapman, and Derrick Phillips, Betye Saar, Miya Bailey and Alfred Coneth, just to name a few. I will miss reuniting with familiar faces, history convos with the elders and walking the halls to visit Victor Love’s Evolve acting studio. Enjoying Colombian coffee breaks with Santiago in his dimly lit music studio or hearing old school music playing next door in Baba Zakee’s studio, (the most inviting space) where he held a mentorship program for young black boys. October slowed down and I experienced One Beat , Performance Art Theatre, where 25 musicians from all over the world joined us for a week long residency. I shared happy feelings with my art hanging next to incredible photographers, Shawn Dowdell and Sista Shaman in the Convergence exhibit. I will miss the calming incense burning across from me, thank you, Dr. Nyrobi Moss for co-signing my greatness and to Ms. Yvonne Rosegarden, thank you for reminding me to reclaim self care in the wellness studio. To the previous Executive Director, Leslie Posey, thank you for always including me in the conversations, supporting and encouraging me to stand in my power. Your contributions to the ArtsXchange are not forgotten. 2019 has truly been an epic year for my career. What began with a 3 month contract proposal, led me to more astounding opportunities and 9 more months of building relationships. A stepping stone for self discovery,I honestly expected to be asked to return but I have no regrets and lessons learned. My heart is full and I am now prepared to move forward as the curator -in- residence for the Atlanta BeltLine. Thank you Alice Lovelace and ArtsXchange team, cheers to 2020! May my presence be forever apart of the ArtsXChange legacy.

Corinthia Yemi Jenkins, MPH is a Certified Health Education Specialist, Doula, Spiritual Medium and Orisa Priestess in the Traditional Yoruba religion of Ifa and Educator. She received her master’s degree in public health with a Health Education/Health Policy double concentration, and her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, with a focus in Medical Anthropology. Corinthia has provided Doula services for the last 15 years, and is the founder of Meditation Suits Me, an organization designed to ensure that meditation as a social justice tool of wellness is available to vulnerable communities throughout Metro Atlanta. Meditation has been recognized as a strong tool for managing stress and developing a mindful approach to life. As founder of Meditation Suits Me, Corinthia's mission as an agent for social justice is to increase access to wellness tools for under served communities. Meditation Suits Me provides meditation classes for all ages and classes that support the prenatal journey. Prenatal meditation classes support the expectant mothers and their families. Children are the greatest benefactors of learning the lifelong skills of mindfulness and meditation and these classes teach them self-awareness and stress management tools help them become better students and critical thinkers. 11 Questions with Corinthia Jenkins, MPH 1.What is the best part about being an artist/organizer? The best part about being an artist/organizer is getting to see your work directly affect others and know your are contributing to the betterment of humanity through the sharing of your gifts. 2. What is the most difficult part? The most difficult part is overcoming technology challenges and staying relevant to the needs of the community. 3. Favorite medium? Favorite way to engage with your community? My favorite medium is high contact group sessions that allow immediate feedback from my participants. It is helpful to know the participants are finding the activities immediately helpful and they can assimilate the tools readily in their personal lives. 4. Whose work do you most admire I admire the ground work to expand the availability of meditation and mindfulness as tools for improving wellness and stress management. Deepak Chopra and the Chopra center has been instrumental in helping me share my gifts with others. 5.Describe your idea of artistic success. My idea of artistic success is to affect change in the lives of people in my community and support families in their pursuit to maintain wellness and mindfulness. 6. What is the one question you wish people would stop asking you? I don’t have a question I wish people would stop asking and welcome all meaningful questions. 7. What is the one thing you wish people would ask? Are there other ways I can meditate or be mindful? This is a great question because many people assume they have to sit cross-legged on the floor with their eyes closed and I encourage them to sit as comfortably as they wish or not to sit at all and focus of their breathing. I let them know some meditations or mindfulness activities are more active and not passive such as walking meditations or creating artistic works. The skill has many adaptable uses to fit their personal needs. 8. Tea or coffee? I am a lover of tea. My favorite being peppermint with ginger being a close second. 9. Top three tunes that inspire your creativity? My top three tunes are more like genres because I love music. Meditation and reiki music/ R&B from the 70’s and 80’s and Most Soul music. 10. What projects are you currently working on? I am currently working on supporting pregnant women through mindful techniques for labor support and beyond. 11. If you could pass along one message to the rest of the world right now, what would you say? If I could pass along one message to the rest of the world right now, I would say learn to appreciate the opportunities to be still with yourself. They are precious and valuable moments to gain self- awareness. To connect with Corinthia or follow her work, please visit her at IG: @meditationsuitsme FB: https://www.facebook.com/meditationsuitsme2/ Twitter: @meditationsuitsme

Tafawa, born Arthur Hicks, in Bessemer, Alabama, in 1947, is an exceptionally talented, highly skilled photographer, printer, and custom picture framer. He was raised in Buffalo, New York, attended public schools there, and was drafted into the U. S. Army at age 18. Upon completion of military service, he returned to Buffalo and earned the Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and African Studies from Buffalo State College. While a sophomore in college, Tafawa’s wife gave him his first camera, and he immediately began to develop his keen eye for photographing people. His creative instincts around photographing, printing, exhibiting and preserving African and African American imagery continue to evolve. For nearly two decades, Tafawa and his wife have lived in Metro Atlanta. "As a photographer, presenting myself as an artist has always been a challenge. With the camera I capture images that present themselves to me wherever I am in the world. In the sense that all art is an expression of creative Spirit, presenting itself as inspiration through each of us, I am an artist using the camera as creative expression. In the words of photographer Minor White, 'Spirit always stands still long enough for the photographer it has chosen'." 11 Questions with Tafawa 1.What is the best part about being an artist/organizer? The best part of being a Photographer/artist are the Journeys that I have taken, to the different parts of Africa, the photos I have taken, the memories that they hold and the opportunity it gives me to share my vision of the world as I see it. 2. What is the most difficult part? Being Still to explore and digitize my photo archives that span 50+ years. 3. Favorite medium? Favorite way to engage with your community? Photography 4. Whose work do you most admire Kathleen Atkins Wilson-Painter Ansel Adams-Photographer Chester Higgins-Photographer 5. Describe your idea of artistic success. Belonging to an artistic community, having the resources and time to continue the creative Journey 6. What is the one question you wish people would stop asking you? Don't have one. 7. What is the one thing you wish people would ask? Don’t have one. 8. Tea or coffee? Tea. 9. Top three tunes to inspire creativity? John Coltrane My favorite things Grover Washington Jr. Masterpiece Leon Thomas The Creator Has A Master Plan . 10. What projects are you currently working on? Establishing my Studio at the Arts Xchange Cataloging the works of Baba Atu the Sculpture Print and exhibit works from my archives provide printing service for artist desiring to have prints made from there paintings Digitizing selected works from my archives. 11. If you could pass along one message to the rest of the world right now, what would you say? Stand in Peace, Stay Strong This to Shall Pass. To connect with Tafawa or follow his work, please visit him at Email: Tafawa@gmail.com

BLACK LIVES MATTER. BLACK ART MATTERS. For the past 37 years the ArtsXchange has stood in solidarity with national and international movements to end systemic racism.  This includes speaking out against injustices and their harmful effects in our communities and beyond that degrade and harm black, indigenous, and people of color. We feel the insurmountable pain of centuries of violence that has converged at this pivotal moment in our nation’s history.  The ongoing loss of black lives has reached a critical point when all responsible persons must act against blatant racism.  We cannot stand silent in this moment.  The ArtsXchange’s mission is to use the arts as a means by which all cultures can come to a truer understanding of themselves and others. Black art in all disciplines is relevant to our entire nation.  By providing a venue and studio space for artists and non-profits, The ArtsXchange supports arts that are uplifting and that build bridges between the cultures of Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas.  To appreciate the complexity and beauty of black lives, you must witness and appreciate the wealth of black art that speaks to our experiences and dreams, our hopes, and prayers. We join with all people committed to moving our nation in the direction of achieving freedom, dignity, and equality for all people.  These interconnected cornerstones of humanity are the foundation for creative expression, community building, and empowerment.  To continue our commitment, we announce the following two art and social justice initiatives: The Ebon Dooley Arts & Justice Conversations The Ebon Dooley Arts & Justice Awards, established in 2018, recognizes individuals and organizations that work to improve the lives and future of their communities. In that spirit, we will host a series of conversations with Art & Social Justice Honorees along with other engaged social justice activists each Friday through the end of this summer. Icons of Art & Social Justice: A Mural Project The ArtsXchange will commission four murals for our building in East Point. We are looking for images and words that not only capture this moment of pain while celebrating the incredible outpouring of unity of spirit committed to ending racism, but that celebrates ideals that uplift community and promote growth in humanity, spirit, and change. The focus is not only in the United States, but globally as well. We invite visual artists and/or writers, as individuals or in collaborative teams, to submit their ideas. Submission Deadline July 16th, 2020. The ArtsXchange will kick off our First Saturday Open Air Artisan Marketplace series. This event is free to the public with artist vendors, food trucks, door prizes, yoga, live performances, and DIY arts and craft station. Feel free to bring your lawn chair and face mask. Vendor tents will be set up in the back parking lot. To ensure the health and safety of our volunteers and guests, we will adhere to the COVID-19 CDC guidelines and will be practicing social distancing and contact less payments. RSVP Be sure to stay connected with us and check out our Virtual Programming. The ArtsXchange thrives on the support and generosity of thoughtful donors like you. Your contribution to the ArtsXchange will help advance our legacy of providing access to avenues of production for emerging and professional artists, in addition to studio and performance space for multi-ethnic and multi-disciplinary artists in our cultural community. DONATE TODAY

Rayfield Lewis II was born in Savannah, Georgia and raised in Athens, Georgia. He came to Atlanta for the first time in 1997 for college at Clark Atlanta University. "My dream has always been to own an art firm, even before knowing what an art firm was. I had an idea and the best word I had for it was an “Art Firm”. I have always loved art, and feel like my talent is one, to get the art in front of people, and two, to bring artists together for the ultimate creative collaborations. For that to happen, I must have a place that artists can come to collaborate and work together. This place would also offer management for the artist involved. And collectively everyone would fall under the same umbrella to ensure that we touch all genres of art, but still have the ability to be independent. My studio space at the AtrsXchange is my first shot at bringing this idea to life and seeing what that looks like. I humbly call myself a visionary. That is the best way that I can describe myself as an artist. As far as being a yogi and a teacher, more than I can say that I believe in a specific religion or God, I believe with my whole heart in being in the moment. I was introduced to yoga during a very trying time in my life, and was dealing with depression. Through breathing and eventually the physical postures, I learned to accept where I was at that point in my life. I now live my life this way. This gift was given to me, and to honor the gift I must share it with the people." 11 Questions with Rayfield Lewis 1.What is the best part about being an artist/organizer? Being that singing is not a gift of mine, being able to work with someone who does have the gift of singing and help them produce work, I have found to be equally gratifying. I'm like that with all types of art. I love to see people with creative gifts create. Being able to be intimately involved with the process is a privilege. 2. What is the most difficult part? Opportunities come my way constantly, often times more than I can handle. Often times, opportunities come my way that either I don't have the knowledge for, or capacity to fulfill. This is a huge reason I'm so excited and committed to the ArtsXchange...because until I gain the knowledge and capacity to fulfill the projects, I feel that the ArtsXchange can help guide me and educate me. 3. Favorite medium? Favorite way to engage with your community? I'm in love with passion, any time I see an artist being passionate towards their work it moves me, regardless of the medium. At the moment I am really into art exhibit openings. That style of presenting art to a small intimate crowd, with the ability to interact with the artist in a cozy environment is key. 4. Whose work do you most admire Andre 3000. His words, style, vulnerability, courage, all of it. A major influence on how I see art. 5. Describe your idea of artistic success. What I'm doing right now is success to me. Having a space for artist to create is more than I can ask for, especially knowing how difficult it is for artist to find space to work. Plus I try to spend the least amount of time possible in the future, I try and fall in love with the journey. So yeah, being able to be on the journey and continuing the journey is success to me. 6. What is the one question you wish people would stop asking you? If I know a particular artist. 7. What is the one thing you wish people would ask? When do you want to start? 8. Tea or coffee? Tea without a doubt. 9. Top three tunes to inspire creativity? Funkadelic : Maggot Brain James Brown : The Big Payback Outkast : Git up, Git out 10. What projects are you currently working on? Ahad Pace and Thom Bess art exhibit Cornerstone Collective art exhibit Victor Jackson Music showcase Kipp schools South Art Mural 2nd Chance MS art curriculum 11. If you could pass along one message to the rest of the world right now, what would you say? We all we got, the sooner we realize that, the better off we all will be. We can only have World Peace if all of us believe it is possible. To connect with Ray or follow his work, please visit him at IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingraylew/ FB: https://www.sugacanesyrup.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kingraylew Website: https://www.facebook.com/rayfield.lewis

Lisa Tuttle is an artist, curator, arts advocate, educator and writer. Her work is interdisciplinary, lens-based and mixed mediums. Lisa's artworks are in the collections of the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia, Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Federal Reserve Bank-Atlanta, and numerous private collections. A former lead administrator with the Fulton County Public Art Program and gallery director for both Nexus Contemporary Art Center (now Atlanta Contemporary) and the Atlanta College of Art, Lisa was also the Visual Arts Director for The Arts Festival of Atlanta, where she oversaw NEA-funded site work projects, and curated temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. In 2019, she established Lisa Tuttle Studio at the ArtsXchange, where she is working daily as a full-time artist and part-time curatorial and public art consultant. Photo Credit - Shawn Dowdell Photography 10 Questions with Lisa Tuttle 1)What is the best part about being an artist? It’s an adventure in ideas and never boring. After encouragement from a painting professor in college, I realized that art-making would bring together all of my diverse interests and passions, be they philosophical, political or personal. 2) What is the most difficult part? Sustaining an income. 3) Favorite medium? Right now, I am enamored with silkscreen and printmaking. It was a growing epiphany to realize that I can “paint” and layer imagery in a new way with photographs and drawings. I also have undertaken a series of ideas for “artist-initiated” public art projects, such as installing surrender flags on Confederate monuments, or inscribing poetry into civic spaces and the public imagination. Stay tuned! 4) Whose work do you most admire? Louise Bourgeois, Rick Lowe, Sophie Calle, Ann Hamilton, Gerhardt Richter, Kara Walker, Adrian Piper, and countless Atlanta friends and colleagues…that I’d hate to list because I’d leave someone out! ….My earliest loves were Marcel Duchamp, Kandinsky and Eva Hesse. Les yeux, les pensées, 2019. Archival inkjet print on Hannemuhle paper 5) Describe your idea of artistic success - That feeling of deep satisfaction and personal pride that happens when you can look at a finished piece or exhibition, and feel you have found the “beautiful idea”. Nothing can be more gratifying than to find that you have connected with the spirit in a profound way. 6) What is the one question you wish people would stop asking you? “Oh you’re an artist? Do you work in oils or acrylic?” 7) What is the one thing you wish people would ask? "When can I visit your studio and collect some of your work? Do you undertake commissions?" 8) Tea or coffee? Tea. Reverie, 2019. Silkscreen on paper 9) Top three tunes that inspire your creativity? Depends on the day. If I really want to concentrate, I play a Phillip Glass playlist; if I need to get going and lift my spirits, it’s an Alabama Shakes, Billie Holliday, Emmie Lou Harris, or Indigo Girls playlist. Also, kinda digging the James Bay algorithm. (oops, more than 3!) 10) If you could pass along one message to the rest of the world right now, what would you say? With courage, all things are possible. Proposal for Stone Mountain, 2019. Digital photograph on fabric To connect with Lisa or follow her work, please visit her at: Email: artistlisatuttle@gmail.com www.linkedin.com/in/lisatuttlestudio FB: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.tuttle.artist IG: https://www.instagram.com/artistlisatuttle/

Theresa Davis is an educator, storyteller, poet, author, poetry slam champion and the host of the award winning open mic Java Speaks. She is also the Literary Director at the ArtsXchange, and has performed on stages across the nation as a poet and keynote speaker. A classroom teacher for over 30 years, specializing in cross curricular education, Theresa continues her passion for education as a teaching artist. As a slam poet, Theresa has competed individually and on teams for over a decade and in 2011 won the Women of the World Poetry Slam. In May 2013, her first full collection of poems entitled “After This We Go Dark” was published by Sibling Rivalry Press. “After This We Go Dark” became an American Library Association Honoree, and the book can now be checked out in local and college libraries around the world. Her latest poetry collection “Drowned: A Mermaid’s Manifesto”, released with Sibling Rivalry Press, in fall of 2016 received the award“Ten Books All Georgians Should Read”. In addition to being a teaching artist and outreach poetry coordinator for Georgia Tech for 6 years, Theresa hosts and participates in many of the lit events around Atlanta. Her one-woman show “Then They’ll Tell You it’s all in Your Head” Made its debut as a part of 7 Stages Home Brew series in fall of 2017. January 2019, Theresa became the Literary Events Coordinator and The Charles “Jikki” Riley Memorial Library, facilitator for The Arts Exchange. Theresa is currently working on her third collection of poetry "Dirt" due for publication 2021-2022 11 Questions with Theresa Davis 1.What is the best part about being an artist/organizer? The best part of being an artist for me, is connecting with the audience and finding the places our individual narratives overlap. As an organizer and show producer, building community with fellow creatives and making space for marginalized communities. 2.What is the most difficult part? When things don't go as I envision them, I tend to bear the brunt of the disappointment. I take it personally and struggle with delegating responsibility. Much of what I do as a producer, depends on the venue the production takes place in, building a relationship and promoting are key. When a venue doesn't have faith in the project or full disclosure about their involvement, it can make for a difficult time. 3.Favorite medium? Favorite way to engage with your community? I really enjoy working with students, in classrooms or community centers, developing writing skills through poetry and creative writing. Slam poetry was the vehicle that opened my heart to a connected love of poetry, and any opportunity to share that journey appeals to me. 4. Whose work do you most admire? I read a lot, and am a fan of many artists. It's really hard to pin down just one. Lorde, Neruda and Trethewey are a few of the poets whose work I read frequently. On Tour with Rising Appalachia 5. Describe your idea of artistic success. For a long time, my idea of success was having my books in libraries. Now that that has happened, I have had to raise the bar. I think true success is accomplishing one goal that leads you to the next, and you never stop creating the next idea or project. It's important that you don't limit yourself or your possibilities. 6. What is the one question you wish people would stop asking you? If they can touch my hair. The answer is, NO. 7. What is the one thing you wish people would ask? I am asked a lot of good questions and have mentored many young artists. I always encourage them to set boundaries, and avoid emotional labor that is not healthy for them, as they share their hearts and souls. I am not an expert and boundaries, but I am working on it every day. 8.Tea or coffee? I drink a lot of coffee. 9. Top three tunes that inspire your creativity? I am more a background noise artist. If I listen to music it's usually classical or a soundscape, lyrics distract me when I'm writing. 10. What projects are you currently working on? I am finishing my third manuscript "Dirt" and working on a collection of poems for children. I had a fourth grader tell me that if I wrote a book of poems for children, I would have all of her allowance. I think I want all of her allowance. 11. If you could pass along one message to the rest of the world right now, what would you say? Be easy with yourself and others. There are difficult times ahead and our humanity and collective communities are the things that can save the day. Let's work to save the day. To connect with Theresa or follow her work, please visit her at Website: https://rockstarpoet.wixsite.com/theresadavis IG: @shepiratepoet FB: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarpoet/ Twitter: @piraterockstar YouTube: (Sista Seuss) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL0FKSQZKJxiAsQI2-M87rQ

Press Release Southeast Community Cultural Center d/b/a The ArtsXchange Black History Program Atlanta, Georgia, Saturday, February 22, 2020: The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2015 – 2024 as the International Decade of People of African Descent. This proclamation was made because the people of the African diaspora and their human rights should be protected and promoted. During the month of February, we celebrate and honor the contributions that people of African descent have made to this Nation. In 2020 the ArtsXchange will celebrate the multiplicity of what it means to be African. As a part of this celebration, ArtsXchange will be hosting the following events for Black History Month: ATL BLACK HISTORY FILM FESTIVAL: Presented by Commissioner Marvin Arrington Jr, Fulton Films, Friends of Wolf Creek, and Urban Film Review 12pm until 5pm | Ebon Dooley Community Room Films Screenings: Slavery by Another Name and Dark Girls RSVP BLACK HISTORY MARKET PLACE 3pm until 9pm | Studio #104 Vendor spots are $50. Apply by Thursday, February 20th Vendor application ARTSXCHANGE BLACK HISTORY CELEBRATION: A celebration and inspirational offering of global black, indigenous greatness that has shaped the world. 7pm until 9pm | Paul Robeson Theatre Roots of Glory, Honoring the Ancestors curated by Corinthia Jenkins & Carolyn Renée Morris Global Heart Beat curated by Sista Shaman Word Sound Power by Theresa Davis A Seat at the Feet curated by Vanessa Manley Unforgettable Dream Makers and Earth Shakers, curated by Kenneth Zakee RSVP Visit our website for more details. www.artsxchange.org

The Summer Arts Enrichment Institute and the LEGACY OF Youth Programming AT the Arts Exchange One of the founding pillars of the Arts Exchange that made it an accessible and inclusive center for community and the arts was its wealth of youth programming, as exemplified by the 8-week Summer Arts Enrichment Institute of the 1980s and 90s. An affordable, multidisciplinary summer day camp for children 5 to 15, the Institute offered families of all backgrounds the opportunity to provide their children quality, artist-taught arts enrichment, recreation, education, and life skills. The first institute was conceived in 1985 by board member Alice Lovelace, who designed and directed the comprehensive experience assisted by professional artists, many with studios at the Arts Exchange. After Alice became executive director in 1986, she continued to design the summer experience, AND turned to Theresa Davis to manage the day-to-day operations of the Institute. Theresa created programming that ranged from poetry, gardening, arts and crafts, film criticism, and theater. She filled whatever roles were necessary to run the camp and give every child a quality experience. “The kids enjoyed themselves,” She Remembers, “...They showed up eager and ready to do things, and you didn’t really have to convince them. They were just there for it… and it helps that many of the kids were children of artists, so they had an appreciation for art, quality of people’s time, and personal responsibility.” - Theresa Davis Students numbered near 100, with children from diverse backgrounds. Some were children of artists, government officials, lawyers, and doctors; but an equal number came from the community surrounding the Arts Exchange, or from programs like Families First. Each year the staff was supplemented by 10 youth workers provided by the City of Atlanta. Each student was assigned a teacher-mentor and received special time and arts instruction. Some workers shadowed and supported the administrative staff as well. The Institute provided an inexpensive and affordable option for families, making it a vital asset to the community at large; it gave children from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to interact, develop their creative minds, explore the arts, and have fun in a safe environment while school was out. The programming was diverse and interdisciplinary, and played a role in the future development of many young artists’ careers. One year, students were inspired by Davis’ film criticism class, and decided to put together a production of the 1980s comedy/horror musical, Little Shop of Horrors. Arts Exchange board member Logan Kearse built the play’s famously mischievous talking plant, Audrey II, and Jahi Kearse, Logan’s son, played the story’s protagonist, the absent minded floral shop attendant Seymour. The production was just one of the many instances where students got the chance to explore and study hands-on storytelling, character development, and performance. Several of the Institute’s students, including Jahi, went on to continue their theater and dance training at Freddie Hendricks’ Youth Ensemble of Atlanta, and have continued to flourish with careers in the theater arts. Jahi’s gone on to Broadway and beyond, starring in musicals like “Holler If Ya Hear Me” and “Baby It’s You!”. He most recently played Dr. King in the touring show “I Have A Dream”. “It was pretty awesome.” Davis remembers. “[The kids] felt really accomplished, and it’s really cool that a lot of those kids that were part of that process ended up being singers and dancers in musical theater and social justice theater.” Each year, the Institute took a critical deep dive, exploring specific cultures through all manner of disciplines. One summer, the focus was South Africa, which meant the students learned the Boot Dance of the country’s miners, painted images of hope for the African continent, and wrote poems inspired by all they were learning. It was 1987 and Apartheid ruled in South Africa, so the program also incorporated discussions on the oppressive system, inequality, and social justice. In addition to an exhibit of their art, and a performance that included various South African dances, students created a chapbook of poetry entitled ‘Soaring on the Wings of Freedom’. In 1987, the Institute’s staff included Rebecca Williams teaching drama and dance. A professional actor in her own right, Williams went on to play a classic role in the Academy Award-winning epic film Forrest Gump (1994). In one of the film’s most iconic scenes, with the famous line, “Life is like a box of chocolates…”, Williams plays the young, tired nurse waiting at the bus stop bench with Tom Hanks’ titular character Forrest Gump, who famously regales her with his life story. Williams passed away a few years later, but her impact on the lives of the children she taught and her fellow teachers like Theresa was broad-reaching and visceral. Recently, Forrest Gump was selected for preservation by the Library of Congress as "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant", and Rebecca’s legacy is planted there, as well. Another fellow Arts Exchange founder, poet and activist Ebon Dooley, had two children enrolled in the summer program. His daughters Teressa Hale-Mathurin and Anita Hale were among the children who benefited from the Summer Institute. TERESSA found herself immersed in the arts from a young age because of places like the Neighborhood Arts Center and the Arts Exchange. She attended the Institute between the ages of 5 and 10, where she took her first classes in theater and dance. She herself has gone on to incorporate the arts in her work today as a behavioral health specialist, helping clients of all ages and backgrounds reach better mental health and successful lives. As Teressa explains: “It’s about paying it forward…you have the youth that come up in [the arts] — they benefit from it: they take it with them, and they create, and they become these awesome adults, and they pass it along to the next generation…You know, the kids are our future leaders, so it definitely is needed and will impact them, so that they can be the best that they can be in whatever it is that they decide to do in life.” As we move on to the next chapter in the Arts Exchange’s history in East Point, one can only imagine what the programming might look like in this new space and this new era. Given the legacy of our past, it is sure to be unique and life-changing for adults and children.