WHAT MATTERS: An Exploration of Why We Create

This event is free and open to the public

Join us for an evening of conversation with our visiting artists, Desiree Aspiras, Melissa Blount, and Jennifer Graves. They will talk about their creative practices, why they create, and why engaging with diverse voices and narratives is so important. They will discuss and share current works in progress and work from their individual creative practice. The Gallery Lab will feature their works in progress. This event is Thursday, June 19 from 5:30-7pm. Join us for a small reception from 5:30-6pm then the talk will begin at 6pm. This event is free and open to the public.

Melissa Blount is an artist, writer, and licensed clinical psychologist practicing her craft in Evanston, Illinois. Her textile pieces explore notions of Black womanhood, trauma, and white supremacy in America. She often works with antique household linens as a canvas to reshape and reimagine the narratives around Black women and domesticity that are deeply woven into the fabric of our country. She cultivates unique opportunities for people to contribute to these conversations through community sewing circles and public actions. As a passionate local community activist and volunteer, she was a founding member of MEET (Making Evanston Equitable Together), OPAL (Organization for Positive Action and Leadership), and Artist Book House, local nonprofits and organizations that worked in advocacy, political action and the arts. She’s also an experienced clinician and lecturer presenting throughout the country on Black health, wellness, trauma, and the opportunities for healing and community building through the visual arts. 

Jennifer (Jenn) Graves is an educator, bookbinder, and letterpress printer in Los Angeles, CA. Her work has been exhibited both in the US and internationally. Jennifer teaches Book Projects at Otis College of Art and Design and bookmaking and printing workshops at various entities, including the Printing Museum and her SCRAPScollective studio.

Desiree Aspiras is an educator, therapist, and facilitator. Her work is focused on integrating creative, contemplative, and healing-centered approaches into her work in mental health, higher education, and social justice. She enjoys letterpress printing, poetry, printmaking, book arts, and collage. She is also an Acosta Institute Fellow, and the founder of Printmakers Against Racism and Deep Breath Press.