Oberlin Community Invited to Apply for Seat in Virtual Program on Black Arts Movement

Oberlin students, faculty, and staff are invited to participate in a free, virtual educational initiative that delves into the Black Arts Movement of the 1960s. 

Founded and curated by Romi Crawford ’88, professor of visual and critical studies at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Black Arts Movement School Modality (BAMSM) pairs 12 original practitioners of the Black Arts Movement in Chicago with a group of faculty made up of contemporary scholars and artists. 

The virtual program runs August 2 through August 14, and consists of lectures, workshops, and small breakout room opportunities in a classroom setting. The curriculum topics include Festac ‘77 (Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture), Improvisation, Collectivity, and Black Aesthetics.

The class is a closed group of about 40, and Crawford says there are several seats available for anyone broadly interested in American art and visual culture, with a particular interest in African American and minority art and culture. Hosted by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the program has drawn participants from Yale University, Stanford University, Howard University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College, among others. 

“Some participants are also professional artists, curators, and graduate students. It’s meant to be an eclectic and dynamic group,” Crawford says. 

Anyone interested in applying should send a one-page statement of interest and a resume or CV to info@bam-school.com.