James Baldwin art, Marygrove Campus Summer Fest, Downtown Boxing Gym

This Week on American Black Journal:

Traveling exhibit ‘Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin’ makes last U.S. stop at The Wright Museum

A unique traveling art exhibit, “Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin,” has made its way to The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The exhibition, created by Detroit-based artist Sabrina Nelson, offers an intimate exploration of the influential writer and activist James Baldwin in celebration of his centennial birthday. It runs through February 28, 2025 and is the last stop on the exhibit’s tour across the United States.

“Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin” is a deeply personal project by Nelson, who dedicated 91 days to immersing herself in Baldwin’s essence through her art. The exhibit features a diverse array of works, including a seven-year sketchbook study, vivid paintings on paper and canvas, video projections, installations, and augmented reality experiences. “Frontline Prophet” not only honors Baldwin’s life but also encourages a reflection on his enduring relevance in contemporary discussions of race, identity, and activism.

Nelson, a seasoned interdisciplinary artist and educator with over 37 years of experience, has exhibited her work nationally and internationally. Her practice spans various media from painting and sculpture to performance and art installations. Alongside her artistic career, she has made significant contributions as an educator serving at institutions like the College for Creative Studies and the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Nelson sat down with “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson to share insights into her creative process and her deep connection to Baldwin’s work. She also expresses her hope that visitors will come to understand Baldwin’s impact and legacy, both past and present, through the exhibit.

Marygrove Conservancy hosts free, family-friendly Campus Summer Fest in Detroit

Marygrove Conservancy in Detroit is gearing up for its 2024 Campus Summer Fest from 12-4 p.m. on August 10. The event takes place on the Marygrove campus grounds in the Live6 neighborhood of Detroit. The free festival showcases a variety of community programs, organizations, schools, and businesses. The annual event also includes activities for the whole family such as games, giveaways, live entertainment, campus tours, educational and community resources, health screenings and more.

“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson gets the details from Turkessa Baldridge, Marygrove Conservancy Director of Programs & Engagement. She explains the purpose of the free, family-friendly event and how it brings the surrounding neighborhood together with a variety of fun activities and community resources. She also gives an update on the educational partners, community organizations, and arts & culture groups housed on the Marygrove campus.

Downtown Boxing Gym’s culinary curriculum teaches children cooking skills and nutrition

Every day after school, hundreds of kids head to Downtown Boxing Gym on Detroit’s east side to shoot some hoops, get help with their homework or hit the boxing ring. They’re also having fun in the organization’s new commercial kitchen making nutritious meals with a well-known Detroit chef. 

Molly Mitchell, the former owner of Detroit diner Rose’s Fine Food, became Downtown Boxing Gym’s associate director of culinary arts in January. Mitchell’s role includes preparing fresh meals and snacks for students each night, totaling more than 1,000 meals per week.

She’s also developing a culinary arts curriculum by teaching basic cooking skills and healthy meals that kids can make at home. The nonprofit offers free academic and athletic programs, electives and mentorship to youth ages 8-18, with continuing mentorship and support through 25.

“My goal is to build out a program that is not only really informative, that if someone wanted to go get a job in a restaurant, they could after taking this program,” Mitchell said. “But really, I’m just trying to cement an excitement for food that can be a lifelong passion, whether you’re working in a restaurant or you just like learning how to cook amazing meals for yourself and your loved ones.” 

BridgeDetroit’s Micah Walker and One Detroit’s Chris Jordan stopped by the Downtown Boxing Gym to watch Mitchell teach students some new skills in the kitchen. Plus, Walker talked with Mitchell and Downtown Boxing Gym founder and CEO Khali Sweeney about the program and how it fits into the gym’s larger mission.

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