Season 2021-22: Scars and Emblems

As we have moved through all the extraordinary events of this past year we have been shown all the ways humans are marked by events, people, experiences. In moments of collective tragedy we may feel that etching more because we recognize the shaping happening in us by seeing it happen to the world around us. But every individual is constantly re-formed by the wounds and gifts of time and place, opportunity and culture.

In this season of Scars and Emblems, we open the door to shape-shifting stories, welcoming artists to reflect on the common and uncommon ways they have been marked. 

We are deeply honored that the incomparable Ursula Rucker — visionary, activist, Philadelphia legend and extraordinary artist — agreed to curate this season’s Close Ups series.  She brought her wisdom and artistic prowess to assembling and mentoring an exceptional group of artists to delve into their scars and emblems.  Her unique voice infuses the series with a depth of exploration and a freedom of expression that feels revelatory. 

And our first live performance in over 2 years, planned for spring 2022, couldn’t be more timely. Ruth Naomi Floyd’s prescient work The Frances Suite is an urgent, joyful, seering musical jewel that traverses the prophetic life of a largely unsung poetic voice from history to find markers for a just and vibrant future.