
The Arts, Public Engagement, and Social Change Discussion
Presented by Henry Art Gallery
Date & Time:
Saturday, July 27, 2024
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location:
Seattle Art Fair Christie's Theater
Where Do We Go from Here? A Conversation with Josué Rivas and Elisheba Johnson, Moderated by Michelle Woo
Presented by the Henry Art Gallery at the University of Washington in conjunction with the exhibition Hank Willis Thomas: LOVERULES – From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, this thought-provoking panel brings together the voices of artists Josué Rivas and Elisheba Johnson, moderated by Michelle Woo of For Freedoms. Together, these dynamic speakers will delve into the pressing issues posed by the question, “Where do we go from here?” connecting art, civic engagement, and community in the United States today.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Josué Rivas is an Indigenous Futurist and multi-disciplinary storyteller who challenges mainstream narratives about Indigenous peoples. His work connects art, technology, journalism, and decolonization, aiming to co-create with communities and serve as a vehicle for collective healing.
Elisheba Johnson, co-founder and curator of Wa Na Wari, drives cultural place-making through her conceptual art. Influenced by the Fluxus movement, she emphasizes accessibility and art’s role in civic life. Johnson’s work fosters equity and engagement within communities.
Michelle Woo is a co-founder of For Freedoms with Hank Willis Thomas, Eric Gottesman, and Wyatt Gallery, an artist-led organization that centers art as a catalyst for creative civic engagement, discourse, and direct action.
ABOUT THE HENRY
The Henry is at the forefront of advancing contemporary art and ideas. As Washington State’s first art museum, the Henry has a long history of championing artists at every level of creation and stage in their career. Exhibitions range from intimate photography presentations drawn from the museum’s vast collection to large-scale, commissioned installations by some of today’s most prolific artists. Creative experimentation, diversity of voices, and a rich visitor experience are core values of the Henry. Learn more henryart.org.