REVOLUTION IS THE SECRET OF JOY 

In an ongoing series that takes a look at the role of the arts in Resistance, Organizing and Cultural Transformation, HipCinema Labs and SIFT Media 215 bring cultural programming to North West Philadelphia.

Curated by Filmmaker Nadine Patterson 2019 Leeway Transformation Award Recipient

Tuesday February 25th, 2020 12pm to 1pm

Series starts at Mt. Airy Nexus, 520 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia PA 19119

(Light Refreshments will be served) 

What is the role or function of art in our society? For hundreds of years, different art forms have been tied to political and social movements. In recent times, we have seen that art has separated from its function, as it becomes more commodified and tied to consumerism and the selling of products or services.

Through film screenings and open dialog, the series will take a look at this shift and also take a look at the healing function of art: to bridge the spiritual and emotional realms and create a sense of joy and shared humanity among those creating/witnessing together. It is through this healing power that art can magnify, actualize, and bolster social progress.

The first program is on Tuesday February 25th, 12pm to 1pm at Mt. Airy Nexus. It will feature filmmaker Nadine Patterson and her half-hour documentary  “Moving with the Dreaming” which  explores the cross-cultural collaboration between African Americans and Aboriginal and Islander Australians in modern dance and civil rights. It was broadcast on public television in Philadelphia, PA and Tucson, Arizona; Winner of a Prized Pieces award of the National Black Programming Consortium 1997. Music by Warren Oree and the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble. Produced by Marlene G. Patterson.

Viewers will also see a three minute film, “Back to the Ground”, that Nadine produced featuring footage from Mumia’s 60th birthday celebration 2014. The creation of the film was inspired by the music of Philadelphia singer-songwriter Sonni Shine. 

Nadine and Sonni will then do a Q&A with the audience and explore how arts and culture function in current social movements.

Please RSVP to siftmedia215@gmail.com, all are welcome but we need a head count for snacks.

Mt. Airy Nexus is a wheel chair accessible venue. Via SEPTA try  H Bus stop at Carpenter and McCallum; and Chestnut Hill West Line, Carpenter Lane stop.