It’s Just Art! Using the Creative Arts as a Medium for Social Justice and Community Building - Alonzo Johnson - AM 2 Day (Thurs/Fri)
The purpose of this workshop is to explore the intersections between the arts and social justice. Artistic expression has always played an integral role as a catalyst in promoting social justice and action. In a variety of interdisciplinary arts (i.e. Bertolt Brecht, Augusto Boal, Goya, Picasso, African American Quilting, Alvin Ailey, Upton Sinclair, Julia Esquivel, Negro Spirituals, Freedom Songs of the Civil Rights movement, Mexican Muralism etc.) the artistic imagination has led to powerful expressions of justice. In this workshop, participants will engage in learning that will explore both the intersections of justice, the arts, and artistic expression as a form of embodied theology. The workshop will also explore examples of how the arts can play a significant role in forming intergenerational relationships in church, and justice networks in the community. Through trifold concepts of education, edification and engagement, this workshop will also explore tactile ways that creative arts can be important mediums in fostering missional outreach and be integrated into ministries of social justice. This workshop will also integrate elements of African drumming and prayer, participants will also get an opportunity to play drums in a rhythm and prayer circle.
Class Limit 20. Materials Fee $10
Rev. Dr. Alonzo Johnson is Coordinator for the Self-Development of People Program (SDOP). SDOP is a branch of the PCUSA’s Compassion, Peace and Justice Ministry (PMA). He is also the Convener of the PCUSA’s Educate A Child, Transform the World initiative. Rev. Johnson has 25 years of experience specializing in urban, youth, education, creative and performing arts, anti-poverty and social justice ministries. Rev. Johnson served in urban ministries in Louisville KY, and Philadelphia, PA and has worked as a volunteer chaplain for 9 years at Luther Luckett Correctional Facility in LaGrange, KY. He has an MDiv and DMin from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.