ARTISTIC EYES

Your Weekly Recap of ARTIVISM Events!

Kai Malette

July, Week One

June's over? July.

Terrible joke aside, peace and love, everybody! We've made it to July, summer's in full swing, and ARTIVISM continues its mission to promote social activism through creative expression.

It isn't an ARTIVISM event without someone looking fresh.

A theme for this week revolves around the idea that it's not only the regular ARTIVISM visitors that make our events fun, it's the outside community showing up and showing out for the sake of creating. There were many fresh faces at several events this week, and like clockwork, I'm here to tell you all about it.

For those who showed up to our First Friday event, thank you! We'll talk more on that in a second. But if you missed literally everything this week- we all make mistakes, and you can live vicariously through this recap! Let's begin, shall we?

Monday, June 30 - Melodic Mondays at Aurora Market

Oh Aurora, how we love you so! Melodic Mondays would not feel the same without the generous host that is Aurora Market, so remember to pay them a visit whenever you want some good food or some groceries (Or a $7 meal deal every Monday!).

This week's Melodic Monday was more relaxed than others, but while our usual favorite hosts were indisposed, it fell upon me to lead our guests in a more musical open mic. While we did not see as many familiar faces as we usually do, the local community went and surprised us. A family with a small child encouraged the young one to sing one of their favorites songs (Old MacDonald, a classic), and we encouraged that, because yes, he did have a farm. E-I-E-I-O, my friends.

Other community members were present this Monday, as well. An artist from out of town joined us, and they played some of their music for us, which was admittedly a very fun experience. We create a space for all to share, and we will always support local artists.

Tuesday, July 1 - Sankofa Jam Session

Don't worry Sankofa, we love you just as much. We kicked off the first official day of July with the classic ARTIVISM jam session. As we set up, people piled in, many who I have not personally seen before. Whomever continues to spread the word and invite so many new people, know that every night, you're making someone's day. Continue to invite people you know! Take some time with us for the "free therapy," as so many have described our evenings at Sankofa.

The inviting nature of the jam is what brings everyone together, and to no one's surprise, people found themselves catching different vibes, taking full advantage of the open microphones, singing and cheering as the musicians on the stage created nothing less than magic.

Fresh jams, no jelly.

I had invited an old friend who happened to be in town to join us for the evening- someone I knew was a musician, once upon a time. He adamantly told me before we walked in that he didn't plan on picking up any of the main stage's instruments. Not 30 minutes later, he was holding the iconic 6-string bass, laying down a groove with the rest of us. As we began to head home, he said to me, and I quote:

"I think I'm going to pick up my guitar again when I get home."

The smile that stretched across my face was immense. Mind you, I'm normally smiling, but hearing that nearly made me giddy. If we can inspire someone to create for themselves, we have already succeeded at part of our mission here.

We hope to see you at the next jam session; perhaps we may inspire you!

Friday, July 4 - First Fridays at the Oliver

No one told me that we would be competing with Beyonce for a Fourth of July event. We're good, but we're not that good.

Someone probably felt really happy after this play...

Nevertheless, our First Friday went well, and it felt like a family event more than a market this time. I witnessed a spades game play out in the most dramatic fashion,. DJ FOLABEATS got on the turntables and absolutely crushed it, and people soon found themselves vibing out some more to the live music performed by our musicians; and when the open mic came about, many were willing to come and perform! It may not have been a wild party, but those who appreciate what ARTIVISM does made it feel like a party nonetheless.

How serious should we be? Answer: No.

The night ended with everyone traveling to The Oliver's rooftop terrace, where we shared food, drink, and watched as those around the city set off fireworks, in line with the holiday tradition. This holiday may feel more stressful for some in recent days, but it's best to remember that you are not alone. ARTIVISM stands for its community, and we create art to fight against the injustices of this world.

Where to Now?

Well friends, July is here! But a new month does not stop us from moving forward with our regularly scheduled programs. Not only do we have our regularly scheduled events (below), we are cooking up some fantastic new ideas for when we next see you all.

Tuesday, July 8 - Sankofa Jam Session

Several of our partner artists are ready and raring to give you all a show, and who are we to not support them? Ideas are consistently flowing, and that is a creative's dream. Remember though, the only way you can hear about what's going down is to keep in touch with us! You can do that by keeping an eye on this blog, or by following us on our Instagram, @_artivism!

We are forever thankful for the continued support, and wish all the best to those who show up and show out in support of the community's creative spark. So long as we continue to express ourselves together, ARTIVISM will continue to thrive.

See you soon! Peace and Love!