Story Stitchers artists and teens live in some of the neighborhoods in the city most plagued by gun violence. Some have personally lost friends or family, just this summer. Collective members, led by music director Mr. K.P. Dennis, will bring their own thoughts and voices to this issue through two new and original songs as part of the events surrounding the exhibition Guns in the Hands of Arts.
Thursday, September 17
6:00-8:00 pm
Steinberg Auditorium, Danforth Campus
Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts
Washington University in St. Louis
In collaboration with Washington University’s Office of the Provost, and in conjunction with Guns In The Hands of Artists, this panel discussion will feature gallery owner Jonathan Ferrara and artist Brian Borrello, who collaborated to mount the original exhibition. They will be joined by artists Ron Bechet and Margaret Evangeline, whose work is featured in the exhibition, and Bob Hansman, associate professor in the Sam Fox School, Gephardt Community Engagement Fellow, and prominent community activist. Moderated by Terrell Carter, an artist, community developer, and former St. Louis City police officer, the panelists will discuss how the transformation of these once deadly weapons into works of art can create a space for poignant commentary, challenging viewers to think in a totally different way.
As part of the event, Saint Louis Story Stitchers Artists Collective will present two original pieces of work, one of which is written and performed by their Stitchers Teen Council members. The local nonprofit promotes understanding, civic pride, intergenerational relationships, and literacy through photography, videography, spoken word, and hip-hop.
