Black Futures in Art: Artist Talk

Join us for a compelling artist talk as part of the Black Futures in Art exhibition, centered on this year’s thought-provoking theme, “The Space Between Us.” Together, we’ll delve into the questions: What is this space? Why does it exist? Can we remove it?

The 2025 Black Futures in Art exhibition, The Space Between Us, reimagines the unseen distances that define and divide us. Building on last year’s powerful theme, “Can You Hear Me?”, this exhibition shifts focus to the energy and possibilities within the gaps separating individuals, communities, and cultures. In a world often characterized by race, class, and culture divisions, this event invites you to reflect on the origins of these separations, their persistence, and how the arts facilitate bridging these spaces.

Guided by moderator Michele Simpson, the discussion features guest curator Adderly Grant-Lord alongside exhibiting artists Thomas Lockhart, Marcus Murray, Yazmin Atmore, and Kevin Johnson. Together, they will explore their artworks, unravel the exhibition’s central themes, and share their visions for Black Futures in art.

The event will include a 40-minute panel discussion followed by a 15-minute audience Q&A, offering you a chance to engage directly with the artists and curator.

Admission is free, but RSVP is REQUIRED as seating is limited. Don’t miss this evening of deep reflection and creative inspiration.

About The Moderator: Michele D. Simpson

Michele D. Simpson is an Associate Teaching Professor at the University of Colorado, Boulder, affiliated with the Renée Crown Wellness Institute, the Center for African and African American Studies (CAAAS), and the Student Academic Success Center (SASC). She also teaches for PEAC, a summer bridge program for underrepresented and first-generation students.

Her work focuses on anti-racism, social justice, and mindfulness, with courses like Gender, Race, and Crime and Mindful Campus. A Brooklyn native, Michele holds a philosophy degree from Virginia State University and a law degree from Indiana University. She has extensive experience in conflict resolution and program development and has held leadership roles with the Black Environmental Science Trust and other organizations.

An award-winning educator, Michele hosts KGNU’s Black Talk, amplifying Black voices, and has presented at CU Boulder’s Conference on World Affairs. Her poetry and short stories appear in The Wayward Wind, reflecting her lifelong commitment to storytelling and community engagement.