Join us for an inspiring discussion with Tonika Lewis Johnson, a celebrated social justice artist and recipient of the prestigious MacArthur "Genius Grant." A resident of Chicago's South Side Englewood neighborhood, Johnson's work serves as a poignant critique of the enduring impact of racial segregation.
During the event, Johnson will delve into her notable project, the "Folded Map Project," which bridges connections between individuals living at corresponding addresses on the city's North and South sides. This initiative exemplifies how art can foster community engagement and dialogue.
The conversation will also feature live readings from her upcoming book, Don't Go: Stories of Segregation and How to Disrupt It, which encourages audiences to explore diverse perspectives and challenge ingrained stereotypes.
This event is complimentary for Hyperallergic paid members.
The session is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, from 3:00 to 4:00 PM (ET) and will be held online. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with Johnson's transformative vision.
Tonika Lewis Johnson is a photographer and social justice artist whose work highlights the effects of systemic disinvestment and segregation in communities. Her groundbreaking "Folded Map" project connects residents--termed "map twins"--who share the same street name but live in vastly different neighborhoods, facilitating conversations that expose both structural inequality and shared human experiences. Johnson's multifaceted approach includes photography, mapping, and public art, with significant installations like Inequity for Sale and initiatives such as UnBlocked Englewood, all aimed at empowering residents to confront these disparities. Her work has been showcased in prominent cultural institutions across the nation, and she holds a BA from Columbia College Chicago and an MBA from National-Lewis University. Additionally, she is a co-founder of the Englewood Arts Collective.
