Artist-in-Residence, Joselyn Wilkinson, created the “Arts for a Green Future†program with Holy Nativity, supported by a grant from L.A. Department of Cultural Affairs. For the past eight months, she has led members of the community ranging from a six-year old percussion prodigy to senior citizen poets, in learning African drumming and creating conscious music. On June 25, 2011 starting at 4pm the group will present the fruits of their labor.
Wilkinson taught free monthly DrumCircle and RhythmSong workshops, emphasizing a message of sustainability and encouraging creative expression. “Anyone can create music, said Wilkinson. “The drum and voice were the first instruments, and when we come together to use them, we are inspired. The power of our creativity is endless.â€
For most participants the workshops were their first attempt to write songs and play drums and many found empowering new skills through their work. The workshops attracted international attention, and were filmed by Fiji TV as part of a special on grassroots environmentalism that will air across the South Pacific.
The June 25th performance will also feature new work from singer-songwriter, Jason Luckett, and dancer/poet, Haize Rosen, guest artists in the RhythmSong workshops. The artists and program participants will present original songs about social and personal change, and share traditional African rhythms.
In addition to the concert, Summer Solstice Celebration will offer workshops in beer brewing, bike repair, matchless fire making, a potluck feast, solar cooking demonstrations, face painting beginning at 1pm.
People are encouraged to bring extra backyard fruits and veggies to swap or donate to Food Pantry LAX.
There is a suggested donation of $5 per person.
A Summer Solstice Celebration
“Beer, Bikes, Beans, Blazes, and Beautiful Musicâ€
Saturday, June 25, 1:00 – 6:00 P.M.
Holy Nativity, 6700 West 83rd Street, Westchester
310.670.4777, www.holynativityparish.org
