A film screening of "Black Book Graffiti: Word Write Large" and a talk back with James Top, CEO of The Odd Partners Graffiti Crew. The film features black graffiti pioneers like Charmin 65, the first woman to paint on subway trains, and Wicked Gary, a founding member of the Ex-Vandals, the first graffiti crew. Since the 1970s, Top has taken his art indoors where he teaches a graffiti class in the Bronx and exhibits his work. James Top will be in conversation with New Haven's Director of Cultural Affairs Adriane Jefferson.
The History of Graffiti
Virtual Event
Black Book Graffiti: Word Write Large Promo. Note: A 30 min version of the film will screen as part of the conversation with James Top
Adriane Jefferson
Moderator
Adriane is the Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of New Haven. Prior to this she was an arts program manager for the State of CT Office of the Arts. She has been an Executive in Arts Administration for over 16 years specializing in cultural equity with expertise in program design, event & media production, grant making, external affairs, community partnerships, and new program initiatives. She specializes in professional development programming for young creative professionals, programs that amplifying Black, Indigenous, people of color and social change initiatives. She is a thought leader, adviser and educator pertaining to issues of Justice, Diversity, equity, access, and inclusion. She has dedicated her career to creating programs that result in a more equitable, vibrant, and sustainable arts landscape. Adriane has a B.A in Popular Music from Florida Memorial University and an M.A in Arts Administration from Savannah College of Arts Design. She currently serves as a councilwoman for the State of CT Arts Council and is a Advisory Board Member for New England Foundation for the Arts.
