By Janis Hashe
OK, the pirate part was a tad bait-and-switchy, but it is hard to say “ARRT” without a pirate voice.
Anyway, mateys, the first meeting of ARRT/East Bay on November 19 was small but enthusiastic. We introduced ARRT – Artists Respond and Resist Together – and introduced ourselves, shared our art backgrounds, and identified some goals for the group, namely:
- Events (such as the Oakland Women’s March; more on that shortly)
- Shows (we have a potential Art of Resistance show space already),
- a Skills Bank that Resistance groups could call on for logos, banners, art for booths, etc.
The first event where we plan to have a presence is the Oakland Women’s March on January 20, 2018. We envision showing up with signs, banners, masks, puppets … of course HATS … whatever we come up with to be part of what we hope will be an even more important demonstration of Resistance than the first, historic, Women’s March.
Last year was the outrage. This year is the heartstrong commitment. We will not be silenced, we will not back down, and, nevertheless, we persist!
Please join us for a Makers Meeting on January 7, 2018 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the El Cerrito Royale, 6510 Gladys Ave., El Cerrito. At this gathering, artists will brainstorm on creations and help one other figure out how to produce them. If you have sign and banner-making materials, please bring them. Most importantly, bring ideas (and friends!).
Special note to performing artists: we’ll also work on a brief street theatre scenario to be performed several times during the Women’s March. Performers, including those for a kazoo band, are needed and welcome!
RSVPs are not required, but it would be great if you could let us know you plan to attend (and a bit about your media). To RSVP or for more information, contact Heidi at heidirand@gmail.com or Janis at openlinescom@gmail.com And please spread the word to your other artist pals … the more, the merrier, mateys!
The El Cerrito Royale is a short walk from the El Cerrito Del Norte BART station and is wheelchair accessible. Free parking.
Janis Hashe is a freelance writer/editor/teacher/theatre person. She has been politically active in Santa Cruz, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chattanooga and now Richmond. Her deepest personal commitments include fighting climate change, ending factory farming and overturning Citizens United. This is her second article for IEB.