In this, our flagship class, we draw from our experience as artists and human beings to have a dialog arising from our life together here and in the larger society. In an atmosphere of trust and safety, and inspired by song, images and story, we will listen to and learn from the voices of our sisters and brothers from communities represented in our circle. We gather at Common Ground on the Hill in our twenty-ninth summer in the midst of a world experiencing a three-year pandemic, financial and ecological crises, wars, climate disasters, growing nuclear threats, racial crises, the continued unveiling of systemic abuse, issues of immigration, the omnipresent threat of terror both foreign and domestic, and divisive politics. Yet, we also find ourselves at a time of potential for great, needed change. We shall discuss and consider what we are doing, as artists and individuals, to bring about the changes and create the communities that we desire. To inspire us and help focus our dialog, we will learn of the work of some of those in our circle.
Facilitated by Walt Michael.
Traditions Week 1 :
Charlie Collyer of the Zepp Center for Nonviolence and Peace Education will discuss the intersection of psychology and nonviolence.
Maryland Folklife Specialist Ryan Koons will re-visit his Monday Keynote on Native American Land Acknowledgement.
Chinese artist Yuli Wang will explore Chinese art, music and culture.
Michael Seipp will discuss the role and history of screen painting art in Baltimore City.
Octavio Carrasco, host of The Flower Power Variety Hour on KBFG 107.3 FM in Seattle, will focus on music and social change.
Traditions Week 2 Speakers:
Veterans Holly Rowan and Josh Hisle will reveal the realities and challenges of women in the military.
On Tuesday, GRAMMY winner Tom Chapin will revisit his Monday Keynote, “Sing Me a Story.”
Father-Son duo Guy and Martial Davis will discuss generational legacy and artistry.
Shura Wallin and Harry Smith will bring us the never-ending work of the Green Valley Samaritans in the Sonoran Desert.
Tyrrell Tapaha will discuss keeping Dine (Navajo) traditions alive and the challenges faced.
