Artist as First Responder December Newsletter

December 2024

Artist As First Responder December Newsletter

We are reflecting on the incredible year we’ve had as an organization in the face of transformative change. Alongside all of its twists and turns, 2024 was host to some of our most impactful programming to date. We presented Sabrina Nelson’s traveling exhibition FRONTLINE PROPHET: JAMES BALDWIN in Paris, Detroit, and NYC. We activated the AfroPortals Project Space in conversations all over Africa, South and Central America, and the Caribbean. We hosted artist talks, community forums, and a W(hole) week of Black Feminist Art Happenings.

To our beloved community — we extend our gratitude, as it takes collective effort and support to do this work! And we can’t wait to share what’s in stock for 2025.

Today is Giving Tuesday and we hope you’ll continue your support of Artist as First Responder by helping us reach our fundraising goal of $5,000. You can do so by sharing our campaign and/or making a donation through PayPal . Please that your contribution is for Artist as First Responder in the details.

With love and gratitude,
The AAFR Team

Some of Our Favorite 2024 Moments

“My favorite memory from this year was definitely supporting the Black W(hole) Series, especially the panel with EastSide Arts Alliance".” - Sam

“My favorite memory this year is when Ietef and I curated the “Gangstas in Wonderland” photography show and activation in the Cosmos Portal in July.” - Marcella

“I’m still thinking about Lynnée Denise’s A(B)lackQueerSound lecture at Stanford!” - Zandashé

Coming up in December

Black Brilliance: Growing Black Artistic and Cultural Futures | Friday, December 6th 4-6PM at A. Alfred Taubman

Imagine what would happen if Black artists had no barriers to sharing their brilliance. If their gifts and talents were lauded and supported, as they should be? Black Brilliance, curated by Yodit Mesfin Johnson, builds on the celebration of Black artists and communities in connection with the exhibition “Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection.”

Queer Clothing & Collectibles Swap | December 7 10-2PM at 1240 Minnesota St.

A queer, gender-non-conforming clothing swap to build community, offer gender-affirming clothing options and create a fun, supportive space for people to explore their style. Hosted by Artist As First Responder at their San Francisco studio in the front courtyard at the Minnesota Street Art Studios.

MORE HERE

Sister: Hold On Closing Reception | December 13 6-9PM at Eastside Arts Alliance

Join us for the Sister Hold On: Reclaiming Third World Lesbian Imaginaries Closing Reception! Expect a vibrant evening filled with live screen-printing with Malaya Tuyay, artist activations, the launch of a New Oracle Tarot Deck created in collaboration with Shreya360 and Artist as First Responder, and deep discussions on themes of resistance, joy, and liberation.

Community Mixer Toy & Clothing Drive | December 17 6-8:30PM at the Black Panther Party Museum

Join us for our annual end of year Holiday Music Mixer + Toy and Clothing Drive. Please bring a donation item and a guest along with you. Enjoy free catered food and drinks along with music selections from our All Star DJ line up. Our community needs our support! Let’s make this Holiday season special.

Sustain our creative first responders.

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