IMMIGRANT AND REFUGEE ARTS ORGANIZATION OPENS ARTIST RESIDENCY STUDIOS IN OAKLAND FOR DIASPORIC ARTISTS
ARTogether invites you to the “Gather In” Open House Celebration on Friday, December 6th, 2024, from 5 – 8 PM
OAKLAND, CA – [November 13th, 2024] – ARTogether, an Oakland-based organization dedicated to supporting Immigrant and Refugee communities through art, announces the launch of its first-ever artist studio residency in downtown Oakland. The new residency program provides a vital physical space where these artists can create, collaborate, and flourish in a supportive community that understands and shares their unique journeys.
To mark this milestone, ARTogether will host an open studios art exhibition “Gather In: Building Creative Sanctuary with Immigrant and Refugee Artists” on Friday, December 6th, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 1200 Harrison Street. This event will showcase artwork by diasporic artists, with food, a raffle, and opportunities to connect with artists from the Bay Area’s diverse immigrant and refugee communities.
“ARTogether’s new studios are more than just a workspace; they are a hub for diasporic artists to connect and create collective power, even during times of uncertainty and grief” says Michelle Lin, ARTogether’s Artist Growth Program Director “In the increasingly expensive Bay Area, it is especially necessary to provide a free space for multiple-marginalized artists to call a creative home.”
“Art bridges gaps across borders, languages, and cultures. ARTogether is proud to create safe spaces where stories can be shared, voices can be heard, and experiences can be honored without judgment or fear, which is needed more now than ever. Our programs bring immigrant, refugee, and diasporic community members to Connect, Heal, Imagine, and Build a future rooted in shared humanity and hope.” – Leva Zand, Executive Director of ARTogether.
The residency fulfills the long-awaited expansion of ARTogether’s original space next door at 1200 Harrison Street, which hosts free workshops, art camps, film screenings, and coworking space. “This new initiative aims to further enrich the cultural landscape of Oakland by providing resources and support specifically tailored for immigrant and refugee artists,” says Leva Zand, ARTogether’s Executive Director.
ARTogether was born seven years ago as a response to the rise of anti-immigrant and refugee rhetoric and policies of the first Trump administration. Since then, it has built a place where compassion, belonging, arts, and understanding can flourish for immigrants and refugees.
Approximately 30% of the San Francisco Bay Area’s population has diasporic roots. ARTogether harnesses the power of art as a tool for wellness and community-building, fostering a sense of belonging for immigrants and refugees, who often experience displacement from their loved ones, language, and culture as part of their migration journey.
Join us for an evening of art, connection, and celebration as we honor the creativity and resilience of our diverse community.
Event Details:
What: “Gather in” ARTogether Open House and Art Exhibition
When: Friday, December 6, 2024, 5 PM – 8 PM
Where: 1200 Harrison Street, Oakland, CA
For more information about ARTogether and the artist residency program, please visit ARTogether.org or contact Sarah@artogether.org.
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About ARTogether
ARTogether is a nonprofit organization based in Oakland, CA, committed to supporting immigrant and refugee artists through mentorship, resources, and community engagement. Through various programs and initiatives, ARTogether aims to amplify diverse and diasporic voices and foster a sense of belonging through the arts.
