The Radical Black Art and Performance Series features virtual performances, film screenings, discussions and workshops by LGBTQ artists and scholars of color.
According to a news release, “The series will provide a contemporary framework for allyship and outline why the dismantling of current power structures is a necessary act in cultivating Black and queer consciousness.”
Philadelphia-based choreographer and artist Arien Wilkerson curated the series. The Hartford native said it shows that the “Black canon is more vast than we think,” while also emphasizing that institutions need to showcase the talents of more people of color.
“This series really invites UConn and other institutions to think about the way they have neglected Black artists and Black educators,” said Wilkerson. “They need to incorporate Black artists, Black thinkers, Black minds in all facets, not just entertaining you, not just educating you, but also in the planning and the infrastructure of all this, too.”
The online performances run weeknights through Black History Month. Among the performances this week is “Cleave,” a dance work by Windsor, Connecticut-based artist Lauren Horn.
“Lauren is just an incredible, dynamic, powerful, strong dancer,” said Wilkerson, “and she has something to say, and she is fiery and she is not about to let anybody bulldoze her over. And I really love that."
To see the entire Radical Black Art and Performance Series schedule, and to register for one of the performances, go to contemporaryartgalleries.uconn.edu.
