The Institute of Black Imagination.

Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. I'm your host, Dario, and today, we have the pleasure of chatting with Nifemi Marcus-Bello, a visionary design director and founder of Nmbello Studio. Renowned for his community-centric and ethnographically-conscious design ethos, Nifemi’s practice exemplifies how obstacles are merely opportunities in disguise. PIn this conversation, we explore the journey of a designer deeply rooted in his Nigerian upbringing. Nifemi shares how he overcame societal pressures that attempted to sway him from his creative path, how reimagining local materials and processes expanded his own design language, and we even get into blood memory and ancestral wisdom. Yeah, it’s one of those episodes. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Now, beaming in from across the Atlantic, design director and industrial designer, Nifemi Marcus-Bello. Key Links Ethnographic Museum of Trocadero - first anthropological museum in Paris This conversation was recorded on April 30, 2024. Host Dario Calmese Producer: K.T. Thompson Lead Designer: Elliott McKnight Director of Digital Content: Vicky Garcia Production Asst: Noa Lesche Archivist & Research: Cyle Warner Original Music composed by Adam Radice Sound Engineer: Adam Radice Visit us at blackimagination.com Watch other episodes on YouTube at The Institute of Black Imagination.

Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of black genius. Today, we're thrilled to present Shani Peters and Joseph Cuillier III, the co-founders of The Black School—an innovative art institution dedicated to teaching radical Black politics through experimental approaches to art and design education. Both artists and organizers in their own right, Founded by Joseph Cuillier and Shani Peters, they're mixing art with talks about Black politics and community projects. Inspired by past community-run schools, like those from the Civil Rights and Black Power movements, they're making a difference today. The Black School has three parts: the School itself, the Festival where students show off their work, and the Studio, where students learn about design and get job training. It's all about helping students understand their neighborhoods, make art that matters, and get ready for the future. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Join us as we explore how organizations like The Black School are changing the game in education and beyond. Now, let's warmly welcome Shani Peters and Joseph Cuillier, the Co-Founders of The Black School, to our conversation. Key Links Joseph A. Cuillier Career Center - We are a school dedicated to providing an education that empowers our students to succeed in the workforce and beyond. bell hooks - American author Alma Thomas - American artist and teacher Rosenwald/Booker T. Washington Schools- Booker T. Washington of the Tuskegee Institute and Julius Rosenwald, philanthropist and president of Sears Roebuck, built state-of-the art schools for African American children across the South. Augusta Savage -American sculptor Harlem Community Art School - The Center was a place for the Harlem community to receive education in the arts for free or little charge. Oakland Community School - was a Black Panther-run liberation school that operated in Oakland from 1973 to 1982. Emory Douglas - The former Minister of Culture and Revolutionary Artist for the Black Panther Party Black Love Festival- presented by The Black School, is an art and music festival promoting a cultural movement for Black love.

Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. I am your host, Dario. Today, we're excited to introduce Olalekan Jeyifous, an innovative artist and architect whose world-building practice reimaginations the relationship between community, urbanity, nature, and time; It’s very much giving Main Character Energy, and citizens of the Black Atlantic take centerstage. In today's conversation, Olalekan and I discuss how architecture alone is rarely sufficient in solving problems in the urban landscape, we reimagine what the continent of Africa COULD have looked like if colonial powers were expelled post-independence, and Lek challenges conventional notions of beauty and success in architecture and why storefront churches and bodegas deserve a shoutout. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, take a breath, as we take a ride with artist and architect Olalekan Jeyifous. Key Links Lebbeus Woods - American architect and artist Silver Lion - an annual award presented for best directing achievements in a feature film at official competition section of the Venice Film Festival since 1998. Saul Williams - American singer-songwriter and musician The Apocryphal Gospel of Oakland- A discussion between artist, Olalekan Jeyifous and UC Berkeley assistant professor of Geography, Dr. Brandi T. Summers on the generative power of collaboration and the potential for speculative architecture as a means to develop comprehensive constructions of urban Utopias/Dystopias that engage with a variety of social, political, and environmental realities. Black Reconstruction Collective -American architecture collective Black Quantum Futurism - A literary and artistic collective Amanda Williams - Visual Artist Justin Garrett Moore- a transdisciplinary designer and urbanist. Torkwase Dyson - Interdisciplinary artist Norma Merrick Sklarek - American architect Grace Wales Bonner - London-based designer Venice Biennale - an international cultural exhibition hosted annually in Venice,...

Hey explorers, it's Dario. Welcome to the IBI podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. Today, we browse the mind of Dr. Carla Hayden, the 14th Librarian of Congress, appointed by U.S. President Barack Obama. Dr. Hayden is the first woman and the first African American to hold this position at the National Library. As an actual librarian, Dr. Hayden is known for advocating for the privacy of library users and for her initiatives to promote broad access to public libraries and their resources. Our dialogue today, much like the Library of Congress itself, is a treasure trove of literary jewels. We discuss how the Library of Congress is not your mother’s library, containing priceless artifacts like the Bayard Rustin papers, and a handwritten letter from Nina Simone to Hazel Scott. We talk American literacy rates, how parents can engage reluctant readers, and we even get personal, as Dr. Hayden and i discuss the health challenges black women face in the workplace, especially in positions of power. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. So grab your library card and a snack… It’s time to check into the people’s university, with Dr. Carla Hayden. Key Links Library Of Congress - the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Nina Simone - American singer-songwriter, pianist, and activist. Hazel Scott - Jazz pianist and singer Enoch Pratt Free Library- the free public library system of Baltimore, Maryland. American Library Association - largest membership association in the world for the library industry. August Wilson - American playwright André Leon Talley - American fashion journalist Citizen DJ - Make music using the free-to-use audio and video materials from the Library of Congress Jessye Norman - American opera singer What to Read Seven Guitars - August Wilson

Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination, where we beam in conversations with iconoclasts from the galaxy of Black genius. I am your host, Dario. Today, we're thrilled to welcome Jawara, a cutting-edge visionary in all things hair, fashion, and beauty. His work graces the pages of British Vogue, American Vogue Italian Vogue, OK, all the Vogues.., i-D Magazine, T Magazine, and W Magazine… all the lettered magazines. Not to mention the runways of Burberry, Gucci, Chanel. You understand what I’m saying. In today’s conversation, Jawara discusses the historical challenges within the industry around the styling and care of black women's hair, how the rituals of haircare can allow us a bit of reprieve from an ever-increasing pace of life, some practical styling tips, and how hair indeed can bring you closer to God. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, a beautifully candid conversation with the maestro, Jawara. Key Links Sister Carol- Jamaican musical artist Kingston, Jamaica- Capital city and chief port of Jamaica Dancehall - genre of Jamaican popular music that originated in the late 1970s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)- Public college in New York City with focuses on art, business, design, mass communication, and technology connected to the fashion industry. Tyler Mitchell - American photographer, best known for his cover photo of Beyoncé for the cover of Vogue. Micaiah Carter - American photographer/director What to Read Crowns: My Hair, My Soul, My Freedom: Photographs - Sandro Miller Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America - Ayana Byrd On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker - A'Lelia Bundles You Can't Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have to Explain- Phoebe Robinson What to...

Welcome to the IBI podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. Today, we explore the mind of Brigette Romanek, one of LA’s foremost Interior designers. As the founder of Romanek Design Studio, some of her notable clients include Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Demi Moore, and even the queen herself, Beyonce. (a fact we can neither confirm nor deny). Known for her “Livable Luxe” Gucci meets Gap aesthetic, Brigette's illustrious career affirms the power and value of the black feminine gaze, and that space is indeed the place. Our conversation today is full of gems, like simple, affordable tips on sprucing up your space, and discovering your design aesthetic, to more existential questions about what it looks like to refuse the expectations of others, and how to know when it’s time to move on. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And here we go… space agency, with Brigette Romanek. Key Links Paulette McWilliams- American Jazz Singer Mark Romanek- American filmmaker and photographer Harvey Nichols - British luxury department store chain Romanek Design Studio- Interior designer in Los Angeles, California Carpenters Workshop Gallery - a contemporary art gallery, focused on redefining the boundaries between art, sculpture, and design. The Future Perfect - a leading platform for collectible contemporary design that curates' unique pieces from global designers. What to Read Livable Luxe - Brigette Romanek Iconic Home: Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers - Black Interior Designers Inc, June Reese The New Bohemians: Cool and Collected Homes - Justina Blakeney Wild Interiors: Beautiful Plants in Beautiful Spaces- Hilton Carter What to listen to Mellow Madness - Quincy Jones, Paulette McWilliams

Welcome to Semester 6 of the IBI podcast, your Tribe of Mentors, from the Pool of Black Genius. Speaking of Black genius, today’s guest needs no introduction, but we will go ahead and introduce him anyway. Y’all it’s Kirk Franklin. Yes, THAT Kirk Franklin. 19 Grammy Award-winning Kirk Franklin. Contemporary Gospel innovator Kirk Franklin. .. The gifted singing, songwriting, piano-playing, producing, and yes, a rapping, Mr. Kirk Franklin! In case there was any confusion. We talk about personal pain and trauma. We dismantle the Black church and the traditions that keep us fractured and apart, we wrestle with the notion that life is composed of both moments of happiness and sorrow, but with the unwavering presence of God, regardless of the circumstances, anything is possible. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, without further ado, the musical luminary, Kirk Franklin. Key Links Thomas A. Dorsey- Widely regarded as the father of gospel music Good Words with Kirk Franklin- Kirk Franklin Podcast welcomes people, from all walks of life, seeking inspiration and empowerment. The Dead Sea Scrolls - ancient, mostly Hebrew, manuscripts (of leather, papyrus, and copper) first found in 1947 on the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea. Southern Baptists Apologize For Slavery Stance - NPR, August 28, 2009 2 Corinthians 12:6-10 (NIV) - Biblical Scripture reference Dr. Charles Stanley - American Southern Baptist pastor and writer Father's Day: A Kirk Franklin Story - YouTube · Kirk Franklin Sep 15, 2023 What to Read The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life's Storms - Kirk Franklin The Evolution of African-American Worship: From the Thomas Dorsey to Kirk Franklin Era - Dr. Antonia Arnold-McFarland Church Boy - Kirk Franklin What to listen to Precious Lord, Take My Hand - Thomas Dorsey

Well friends, we made it. 2023 had its share of joys and challenges, individually and collectively, but we are here. Together. In community. This special podcast edition is our final episode of the year, and you’re in for a treat! Not only will you hear from me, but you will also hear from 6 IBI team members, in their own words, as they introduce a snippet from their favorite episode of 2023. We begin with a conversation from Choreographer and Director Camille A. Brown. Followed by Former Minister of Culture, Black Panther Party Emory Douglas Up next will be Chorographer & Producer George Faison Then a chat with Director and writer Milisuthando Bongela Next, we hear from Producer, writer, and actress Lena Waithe Followed by Photographer and artist Andre D. Wagner And conclude with Dancer, Choreographer, and Artistic Director Robert Battle. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Featured Episode Links E59. Camille A. Brown: For Colored Girls E86. Sketching A Revolution with Emory Douglas E82. Dancing Through the Archive with the Legendary George Faison E66. Inside Apartheid's Wish with Milisuthando Bongela E85. Mastering Your Story - Lena Waithe E84. Life on the Streets with Andre D Wagner E62. Robert Battle: The Power of Community Host Dario Calmese Producer: K.T. Thompson Visual Art Direction and Designs: River Wildmen Director of Digital Content: Vicky Garcia Production Asst: Noa Lesche Original Music composed by Adam Radice Sound Engineer:

Today’s conversation is with the legendary photographer, Chester Higgins. I’ve admired Chester’s work for years… he’s a master of his craft, and a technician to the Nth degree. But it’s one thing to appreciate the work of an artist, it’s another to delve into their worldview: the work we see simply being an artifact of a greater pursuit. Well, that’s what today’s holds. What appears to be captured images, is actually Chester’s attempts at in all actuality, capturing God. In today’s episode, Chester reflects on the near-death childhood experience at the age of 9 that opened his eyes to a parallel reality, introducing him to the spirit that shapes existence. He shares his insights on the interconnectedness of life, the continuous cycle of energy, and the pursuit of capturing the elusive spirit in his photographs. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Key Links Haile Selassie I- Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974 Tuskegee University- a private, historically black land-grant university in Tuskegee, Alabama. P. H. Polk - American photographer known for his portraits of African Americans. Andrew Young - American politician, civil rights leader, and served in the U.S. House of Representatives What to Read Sacred Nile - Betsy Kissam, Chester Higgins Jr. Feeling the Spirit - Chester Higgins Jr. Elder Grace: The Nobility of Aging - Maya Angelou, Chester Higgins THROUGH THESE EYES: The Photographs of P. H. Polk - Chester Higgins Jr., Deborah Muirhead, Amalia Amaki, Meredith Soles What to listen to Water No Get Enemy - Fela Kuti Grazing In The Grass - Hugh Masekela Mighty God (Remix) - Soweto Gospel Choir

Today, we embark on a profound journey with the iconic Emory Douglas. As the former Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party, Emory's art ignited a revolution. Today, we ask you to reorient your ears… this is history. There’s an old African proverb that states when a person transitions, a library burns to the ground. Well, today’s conversation with Emory Douglass is a living archive revealing itself. It’s what we here at the Institute call Archival Intelligence. Take notes. Research the names. Refer back. Today’s conversation is a retelling of artmaking in revolutionary times, and what it means to create new identities within a community. Join us in this safe space as Emory candidly shares tales of rebellion, societal exchanges, and the intricate web of connections in his formative years. This episode is not just an interview; it's a voyage through the corridors of time, shedding light on the profound interplay of art, activism, and the Black experience. And to hear another side of this story, be sure to check out episode 26 with Elaine Browne, the only woman to serve as Chair of the Black Panther party. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. Visit our YouTube channel, 'The Institute of Black Imagination,' and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, join us as Emory Douglas navigates through the intersections of art, activism, and the enduring quest for justice. Key Links The Black Panther Party- African American revolutionary party Bobby Seale - African American political activist and co-founder and national chairman of the Black Panther Party. Huey P. Newton- African American revolutionary and political activist and co-founder of ‘The Black Panther Party Zapatista National Liberation Army - A group of mostly indigenous activists from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas The Black Arts Movement (1965-1975) - Black nationalism movement that focused on music, literature, drama, and the visual arts made up of Black artists and intellectuals. Eldridge Cleaver- member of The Black Panther Party, he served as the first Minister of Information. Dr. Betty Shabazz - an American educator and civil rights activist, wife of Malcolm X Charles W. White - African American painter, printmaker, and teacher What to Read

Today, we're honored to sit down with the incredible Lena Waithe, a trailblazing writer, producer, and actress who's reshaped film and TV. In this enlightening chat, Lena shares her roots, tracing back to her grandmother's brave journey from Arkansas to Chicago. We explore the concept of identity, her take on 'ladylike,' and how she's embraced her individuality. Lena reflects on how societal expectations shape identity and the importance of curiosity and meaningful conversations. We also delve into her creative process and the genesis of 'Queen & Slim,' a film challenging conventions and examining Black identity. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. Visit our YouTube channel, 'The Institute of Black Imagination,' and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Stay tuned as Lena Waithe shares insights on self-transformation, overcoming naysayers, and the power of community in her journey from Chicago to Hollywood. Don't miss this captivating conversation on the Institute of Black Imagination. Key Links Queen & Slim- 2019 American romantic road crime drama film Ready Player One- 2018 American science fiction action film The CHI - An American drama television series created by Lena Waithe Michael G. Fry - Chicago born, Emmy nominated television writer, actor and producer Mara Brock Akil- American screenwriter and television producer Gina Prince-Bythewood - American film director and screenwriter Ava DuVernay - American filmmaker Yvette Lee Bowser - American television written What to Read Black Directors in Hollywood- Melvin Donalson Why We Make Movies: Black Filmmakers Talk About the Magic of Cinema - George Alexander Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years - Sarah L. Delaney & A. Elizabeth Delaney What to listen to

Our guest today is none other than the visionary photographer, Andre D. Wagner. With a lens that tells stories in a way that words cannot, Andre has made a significant mark in the world of photography. He has been commissioned by The New Yorker, The New York Times, Esquire, W Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Time, Vogue, well, YouTube the picture. In addition to his editorial work, he was the creative force behind the promotional imagery for the film "Queen & Slim" in 2019. His first monograph, Here for the Ride, was published by Creative Future in 2017 and he is currently editing a 10-year body of work titled New City, Old Blues. In 2022, he was awarded the Gordon Parks fellowship, and His photographs have appeared in several solo exhibitions and group shows in Los Angeles, New York, and North Carolina. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and like to support the show, click this support link. Key Links The Gordon Parks Foundation- permanently preserves the work of Gordon Parks Gordon Parks - one of the greatest photographers of the twentieth century, was a humanitarian with a deep commitment to social justice. Andre D. Wagner: New City, Old Blues - Exhibition runs through November 17, 2023 Gordon Parks Fellowship The Strivers Row- A multi-cultural marketing agency specializing in content development, talent relations, and event production. Queen & Slim - Stylish, provocative, and powerful, Queen & Slim tells a gripping fugitive story steeped in timely, thoughtful subtext. What to Read Voices in the Mirror: An Autobiography (Harlem Moon Classics) - Gordon Parks A Choice of Weapons - Gordon Parks The Camera - Ansel Adams The Negative - Ansel Adams The Print - Ansel Adams What to listen to Livin' For The

Today, we have a truly remarkable guest. Joining us today is the brilliant Dr. Joy Buolamwini, a computer scientist, digital activist and self-described “Poet of Code” whose journey began at that Temple of Technology, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT for short. She's the founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, a place where art and activism intersect to illuminate the social implications of AI. She also has a book dropping on Halloween called, wait for it, Unmasking AI. How fitting is that for Halloween? But her story isn't just about her prestigious academic credentials; it's about the extraordinary transformation her creative journey has taken. In today’s conversation, she reveals how her quest to create a digital filter, one that could change the reflection of herself in a mirror, led to a profound exploration of technology's hidden biases. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and would like to support the show, click this support link. Key Links Kimberlé W. Crenshaw- American activist, intersectionality Single axis analysis Niles Luther - Cellist & Composer Robert Williams- man arrested through skewed AI detection Coded Bias- a film on Netflix Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - a private land-grant research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. What to Read Unmasking AI- Dr. Joy Buolamwini Breaking the Code: Thriving as Black Individuals in the Era of Artificial Intelligence - Rayshaun "Chu" Smith Black in White Space: The Enduring Impact of Color in Everyday...

Today, we have a very special interview with the legendary choreographer and producer, George Faison. In this conversation, George takes us on a journey through his remarkable life, from his early days in Washington, D.C., to his experiences dancing with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and mostly, and his iconic role as the choreographer of the "The Wiz" on Broadway. For which he won a Tony. Becoming the first Black person to do so. George shares stories of his encounters with great artists like Maya Angelou and Stevie Wonder and the incredible impact they had on his life. But perhaps the most captivating part of this interview is George's vivid description of creating the Emerald City sequence in "The Wiz." He also shares the role books play in his creative process. For George, it all begins with the archive. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. Things Mentioned Maya Angelou - an American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist. The Wiz - The musical version of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" Dick Gregory - an American comedian, actor, writer, activist and social critic. Gazelle - George Faison ballet - Dedicated to the Free Spirit in All of Us. 1967 Detroit riot - The 1967 Detroit Riots were among the most violent and destructive riots in U.S. history. Alvin Ailey - American dancer, director, choreographer, and activist. American Light Opera Company - semi-professional theatre company performing light operas and musicals in Washington, D.C. from 1960 to 1968. Suite Otis - Otis Redding's sassy, sizzling music sets the stage for George Faison's playful battle of the sexes. What to Read All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes - Maya Angelou Giovanni's Room - James Baldwin The Color Purple - Alice Walker The Incredible Lightness of Being - Camie J. Davis

In today's episode, we're joined by Tarriona ”Tank” Ball and Norman Spence of the Grammy-nominated Tank & The Bangas, a band hailing from the vibrant, swampy, and swinging coastal town of New Orleans. They've been wowing audiences since 2011 with their eclectic fusion of funk, soul, hip-hop, and spoken word. Today, we explore their dynamic journey from open mic nights to Grammy nominations; diving into the inspiration behind their genre-blurring music. To date, they’ve released three studio albums, Thinktank (2013), Green Balloon (2019), and Red Balloon (2022). With two Grammy nominations under their belt, they are just getting started. Also, a note, the audio quality of this episode gets a little bonkers as Norman’s headphones begin to fail and Tank’s phone dies. But it’s all a part of the journey to becoming, so we left it in. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. Current members. Tarriona "Tank" Ball – lead vocals (2011–present) Norman Spence II – bass, keyboards, guitar (2011–present) Joshua Johnson – drums, musical director (2011–present) Albert Allenback – alto saxophone, flute (2014–present) Band History: Members of Tank and the Bangas met at a New Orleans open mic show called Liberation Lounge and formed the group in 2011. The band won the 2017 NPR Tiny Desk Contest and in November 2019, they were nominated in the Best New Artist category for the 2020 Grammy Awards. They have released three studio albums, Thinktank (2013), Green Balloon (2019), and Red Balloon (2022). Throughout their career, the group has performed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Austin City Limits” and “The Today Show.” Tank and The Bangas have toured non-stop, selling out venues both stateside and abroad including festival appearances at Coachella, Glastonbury, Bonnaroo and the Newport Jazz Festival. Key Links: Tank and The Bangas - Wiki Tank And The Bangas: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert Tarriona “Tank” Ball | geauxgirlmagazine Tank and the Bangas Unveil 'Black Folk (Remix)' Featuring Kota the Friend, Rapsody & More

Today we have a truly inspiring conversation that delves into the power of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformational journey of one extraordinary individual, photographer, entrepreneur, and social activist, Misan Harriman, a name that has become synonymous with the art of storytelling through the lens. The first brother to shoot a cover for British Vogue in its 104-year history. Misan's incredible journey from self-doubt to becoming a global voice of the moment is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. His iconic protest images became a voice for the voiceless, igniting a conversation that asks, "Why is ending racism still a debate?" Hailing from Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State in Nigeria, Misan was raised in England, yet didn’t formally begin his photographic career until the age of 40. Gifted a camera by his wife, who recognized his passion for the image, Misan taught himself the ins and outs of image-making. A burgeoning portraitist, it was his protest images during the 2020 global reckonings for Black Lives that caught the attention of British Vogue editor-in-chief, Edward Enningful, and the rest, as they say… is history. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. Things mentioned Gordon Parks- American photographer and activist Eve Arnold- American photojournalist Sally Mann- American photographer David LaChapelle- American photographer and director George Floyd- American man who was killed through police brutality Mohamed Amin- Kenya photojournalist Web3 - is a possible future version of the internet based on public blockchains, a record-keeping system best known for facilitating cryptocurrency transactions. Tezos Foundation- financial literacy with blockchain and crypto art Sykes-Picot agreement- secret convention made during

Today we are diving into the captivating life story of Attorney, Artist & Activist (Reginald) Dwayne Betts, a man whose path took unexpected turns, leading him to discover the boundless potential within himself. As we journey through Dwayne's life, we'll explore the profound impact of literature on his transformation, his encounters with influential poets like Sonia Sanchez, and the survival strategies that poetry offered him during his incarceration. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. Things mentioned Freedom Reads- Organization founded by Dwayne Betts that aims to place millions of books into prisons Kiese LeMond- ambassador of Freedom Reads Traci Thomas- podcast host of the Stacks Sherley Anne Williams - American Poet Lucille Cliffton- American poet Eldridge cleaver- author and activist What to Read Makes me Wanna Holler - Nathan McCall The Black Poets- Dudley Randall Homegirls and Hand Grenades- Sonia Sanchez The Art of War- Sun Tzu Crazy as Hell, (the best book on black history you'll ever read)- Dwayne Betts coming soon What to listen to We the People - A Tribe Called Quest Living For The City - Stevie Wonder The Message - Grandmaster Flash Who to follow Website: https://www.dwaynebetts.com/ IG: Reginald Betts (@dwaynebetts) TW: Dwayne Betts (@dwaynebetts) This conversation was recorded on July 13, 2023. Host

Our guest today, Dr. Danielle Wood, is a shining example of how passion and perseverance can lead you to the stars. She defied the odds, shattered expectations, and carved her own path to become a leader in the world of space exploration and technology. So, join us as we embark on this cosmic voyage with Dr. Danielle Wood and discover how she unveiled the universe, one challenge at a time. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. And without further ado, Dr. Danielle Wood. Things Mentioned India south pole Moon landing- After a failed attempt to land on the moon in 2019, India now joins the United States, the Soviet Union and China as only the fourth country to achieve this milestone. The Outer Space Treaty- Chandra Xray observatory telescope - NASA's sophisticated telescope is specially designed to detect X-ray emission from very hot regions of the Universe Systems architecture- A system's architecture reflects how it is thought about in terms of its structure, functions, and relationships. TNW Conference - is a website and annual series of conferences focused on new technology and start-up companies in Europe. Phillis Wheatley- American poet and author, the first black woman to publish a book (as an American woman, but the book was published in the UK). Henrietta

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Institute of Black Imagination. Today we're taking a little detour, podcast inception if you will! We're sharing with you another podcast that featured yours truly as a guest. Get ready to embark on a journey with The Future of Storytelling and my good friend host Charlie Melcher, where we explore my personal journey and delve into the heart of the Institute of Black Imagination. We have so many wonderful gems coming this Fall, and we’re not just talking about our Semester 5 lineup… but our upcoming physical space at the Oculus in NYC. That’s right. We’re not just a podcast. If you’d like to know more about the upcoming Oculus space, or just want the inside scoop on what we’ve got cooking over here, be sure to click on this newsletter link. And if you love what we’re up to, click this support link. Things that we mention Pyer Moss Fall 2021 Couture Show Vanity Fair Cover w/ Viola Davis - Dario 1st black photographer to shoot the cover The Institute of Black Imagination - Interactive website Geoffrey Holder - Trinidadian American actor, dancer, musician, and artist André Leon Talley - an American fashion journalist, stylist, creative director, and editor-at-large of Vogue magazine. Originally Aired on February 24, 2022, on Future of Storytelling FoST Audio Produced by Future of StoryTelling, Corp. With special thanks to Charles Melcher, Madison Brown, Eitan Wolf, and the entire FoST Team Host Dario Calmese Producer: K.T. Thompson Visual Art Direction and Designs: River Wildmen, Cyle Warner Director of Digital Content: Vicky Garcia Visit us at blackimagination.com Watch other episodes on YouTube at The Institute of Black Imagination.

Today’s Summer School episode from the IBI Archive is part 1 of episode 13 with Harlem socialite and style icon, Lana Turner. Born at the Women’s Hospital on West and 110th St. and still residing in the neighborhood 70 years later, Ms. Turner is quintessential Harlem, a landmark unto herself. A mathematician of dressing, Ms. Turner does not just put clothes on but uses her body as a medium in which she expresses her appreciation and preservation of life, style, and beauty, or as she likes to refer to it: “Painting the body canvas.” A doyenne of mid-20th century fashion, and muse of New York Times Street style photographer Bill Cunningham, Lana Turner and I were introduced almost a decade ago at the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem when I was looking for a few hats for a fashion story while in grad school. Upon meeting and chatting with her, I realized quite quickly that it was SHE who needed to be photographed, in her wardrobe, and in her hats… of which there are upwards of, wait for it… 500. Actually, I believe the exact number is 638. Here are some highlights: On the discovery of self: “You know a single woman, single mother, taking care of all of that. But when he got old enough to fly away from the nest, it allowed me to expand my sense of self. Prior to his leaving, however, that sense of self was always in play.” (19:46) “That sense of self was one thing that allowed for, for example, deciding to change say the furniture in my room, and I woke up one morning and I said, No everything should not only be functional, it should also be beautiful.”(20:09) On her love for archiving: “I think the archiving element is in my DNA, it seems to have always been there without you know, want for formalizing that as an educational piece in my life, and it's always been there.” (4:28) On the theatricality of the black church: “But of course, with the black church we are looking at, or at least I'm looking at it as the as a critical foundation for our deliverance from the slavery, both external and internal. I look at church as a way to release the notion of what it means as a collective, to breathe and to pray. I look at the black church in particular for all the things that go on in it that have more theatricality attached.-But I love the collective energies that black people bring to anything. And when it comes to church, oh my goodness. (39:29) On the art of living: I don’t know what the formula is I don't know if I could articulate it all. So let's see, I can start, I can try. There's things that I love. So I love and I don't need other people to do it. I just like being myself. (27:04) Thank you for tuning in! Please don't forget to rate, comment, subscribe and SHARE with a friend. Visit us on IBI Digital at blackimagination.com Watch other episodes on YouTube at The Institute of Black Imagination. Connect with us on Instagram at @blackimagination --- Editorial content provided by Kalimah Small.