Live Arts Will Host a Conversation with Bill T. Jones & Hank Willis Thomas

Legendary choreographer, National Medal of Arts (2013) and MacArthur "Genius" Award (1994) recipient, and artistic director of New York Live Arts, Bill T. Jones welcomes a discussion with Hank Willis Thomas -- conceptual artist, socio-political activist, Guggenheim Fellow (2018), and co-founder of For Freedoms, an artist-run platform for political engagement, discourse, and action especially in the current implementation of their 50 State Initiative. As both artists and change-makers, Jones and Thomas explore their responsibilities of being creatives while engaging with the world around them. Specifically, they will delve into the intersection between artistry, civic participation, and the 50 State Initiative.

For Freedoms' 50 State Initiative is a new phase of programming to encourage broad participation and inspire conversation around November's midterm elections. Building off of the existing artistic infrastructure in the United States, For Freedoms has developed a network of over 300 artists and 200 institutional partners who will produce nationwide public art installations, exhibitions and local community dialogues in order to inject nuanced, artistic thinking into public discourse. Centered around the vital work of artists, For Freedoms hopes that these exhibitions and related projects will model how arts institutions can become civic forums for action and discussion of values, place, and patriotism.

For Freedoms will be in partnership with New York Live Arts for an Open Spectrum event on November 5 at 7 pm. Curated by Brian Tate, Open Spectrum provides a space for community dialogue on the most vital issues facing our community today, engaging participants in active listening, constructive discourse and action planning.

Tickets start at $10, student and senior discount available and may be purchased at 212 924 0077 or online at newyorklivearts.org