BLACK FUTURES MONTH AV

THANK YALL

The essence of this project was birthed through the observation in absences of creative spaces, outlets, and events of personal appeal. Through years of being in and out Palmdale, I observed many aspects I felt compelled to implement upon returns for potential improvement. There has always been something missing and for those in the willows alike myself… nothing was cutting it. The fact that most have been driven out of the area due to low interests, opportunities, and outlets in surrounding areas, has played a prominent role in the lives of many presently and formerly residing within this valley.

This event was a splice from ideas conceptualized pre 2019, inquired about 2020, proposed 2022, and initiated 2023. During my proposal, I met two individuals that expressed interests and we all ended up collaborating on what you all came to know as ‘Black Futures Month AV 2023’. Three strangers, similar goals, energy and passion, months of planning, personal differences— but we made it happen. All we required was access. From the designs, to the marketing, to the curation, to the hosting, to the janitorial work (lmao), and beyond, we came into a space that to most was perceived as dormant, and brought LIFE. From the guests that came in expressing their appreciation, to our associates that reflected on the sense of peace they felt when entering the space, to the residents of the gallery’s actual structure itself that till this day are amazed at the fact that a gallery even existed in their building— I’ll say that everything was everything.

Many terms tend to be thrown around being it is the human thing to do, but immersing in ‘community’ is one of those things that require consideration of our perceptions versus the actual universal meanings. I guess at this point, the main of what I can do is challenge all to go outside of their selves and comfort levels to grasp the concepts of not only communal means, but other aspects of their lives. What is your definition? What are the common viewpoints? What is the actual meaning? & Are you willing to do whatever is required to maintain the core of what it all entails? If unknown, there is personal work to be explored.

Appreciation to everyone that were involved and in support. Connect with any of the entities involved to stay in touch with anything moving forward.