Description

“Every day, I complain, protest and object. But it takes such vigilance and activism to keep legislators on their toes and government accountable to the people on environmental issues. I've been thrown in jail twice for getting in the way of big business. But I don't regret anything I've ever done, and I don't think I'll ever stop as long as I'm breathing. … If we want a safe environment for our children and grandchildren, we must clean up our act, no matter how hard a task it might be” - Hazel Johnson, Mother of the Environmental Justice Movement
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Brushwood Center and Insight Advocacy are excited to announce a call for art for our upcoming exhibition, "Vigilance: Learning from the Legacies of BIPOC Environmental Leaders”. Inspired by the above quote from Mother Hazel Johnson, this exhibition will celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color individuals to the fields of environmental justice and community activism. This show aims to share the valuable insights from past leaders, and inspire our next generation to join the work for a cleaner, safer, more equitable environment for all.
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We invite artists of all levels and ages to explore and express the rich tapestry of achievements, innovations, and breakthroughs made by BIPOC individuals in the fight for environmental justice. From historical pioneers to contemporary trailblazers and local heroes, we encourage artists to delve into the stories, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped the landscape of this work. Featured leaders do not need to be “widely known”, we seek to celebrate all levels of leadership whether it be local, regional, or even international.

Inspiration:
Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from the diverse array of disciplines within the environmental movement, and highlight the individuals who have paved the way for future generations. Consider exploring themes of resilience, empowerment, collaboration, and the interconnectedness of science and culture. Here are a few leaders that inspire our team to help you get started: Mother Hazel Johnson, Robert D. Bullard, Winona LaDuke, Berta Cáceras, Leah Thomas, Adrienne Maree Brown, Richard Moore, Ron Finley, Autumn Peltier, Xiuhezcatl Martinez

Submission Guidelines:
Medium: Open to all visual art mediums, including but not limited to painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, video, digital art, writing/poetry, and mixed media. Performing arts may be considered for inclusion during special events like the opening reception.

?Exhibition Details:
Selected artworks will be showcased at Brushwood Center in Riverwoods, IL from March 3 – May 5, 2024. An opening reception will be held on Sunday, March 3, providing artists with an opportunity to engage with the community and share the stories behind their creations.

Submission Deadline: February 18, 2024
Notification of Acceptance: February 21, 2024
Delivery Deadline for Artworks: February 28, 2024
Exhibition Dates: March 3 – May 5, 2024
Opening Reception: March 3, 2024