18th Street Arts Center presents its annual benefit event, a virtual evening of performance, video arts, and experimental film. Curated by Jheanelle Brown, the evening will present a series of future visions through the eyes of artists and filmmakers in an hour-long screening experience.

October 3, 2020

7:00pm - Live interactive ritual performance with Ulysses S. Jenkins*

7:30pm - we may seek cosmic marronage but let’s remember our terrestrial obligations - a film program curated by Jheanelle Brown

8:30pm - Curator Q&A with artists

Artists in the film program include: Kitoko Diva, Yétundé Olagbaju, Jamilah Sabur, Larry Achiampong, Keisha Rae Witherspoon, Tabita Rezaire, and Nkechi Ebubedike.

How can the future move beyond the intangible? The past and the present have been and are an unending assault against Black being and thus looking past survival requires deep wells of emotional and intellectual capacity. Where are we safe? This question has led Black people to look towards the cosmos for an unknown salvation or to understand more deeply our origin. Whilst flight or cosmic marronage can facilitate our imaginative rigor, it is important to not abandon our terrestrial obligations. 

The filmmakers herein present systems of knowledge that disrupt temporal convention, but are based in rigorous historical examination. The films and videos in this program deconstruct perceived truths and gesture towards the potential for remaking those truths in service of Black self-determination and a liberatory future. 

ARTIST-CURATED TIME CAPSULES can also be purchased to support the organization. We will pair you with an artist after you order. 

Artists: 

• Yrneh Gabon                        • Tomeka Reid
• Sara Daleiden                       • Mithu Sen
• Patty Chang                          • Sam Durant
• Beatriz Cortez                       • Michael Masucci/ EZTV
• Heri Dono                              • Phranc
• Elliott Hundley                       • Kenny Scharf
• Kate Crash                    

*Recipients outside of the US must pay for international shipping.

*Ticketholders at the Premier Event Ticket level and above in LA County will receive a selection of performance objects to be used in the interactive piece, as well as drinks and dessert by Muddle & Wilde and Southern Girl Desserts to be enjoyed at the screening. These will be hand-delivered on the day of the event.

Ticketholders at the Borderless Members Ticket and Arts Advocate Ticket level will receive an annual membership to our exclusive Borderless Membership.

Please contact Jan Williamson at [email protected] to inquire about setting up a sponsorship.

Sponsorships may be purchased at 18thstreet.org/donate, or via check to 18th Street Arts Center c/o Jan Williamson, 1639 18th Street, Santa Monica, CA, 90404. Please note Gala sponsorship levels and number of tickets on your check.