For Immediate Release

Contact:
Thysha M. Shabazz
thysha@shabazzcommunications.com
646.410.0246 office
757.450.3655 cell/text

Third Annual “BID ON CULTURE” Project:

Request for Banner Design Proposals from New York City Artist

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: Friday, April 29, 2011


Harlem, NY, March 31, 2011 - The 125th Street Business Improvement District (the “125th Street BID”), the Harlem Arts Alliance (“HAA”) and Harlem Community Development Corporation (“Harlem CDC”) request proposals for the design of banners for the third annual BID ON CULTURE project, along with The 125th Street Business Improvement District. The BID ON CULTURE project is an ongoing initiative of the 125th Street BID that is intended to showcase the cultural vitality of Harlem along its primary commercial thoroughfare - the famed 125th Street.  The goal is to promote recognition and understanding of Harlem’s unique and authentic heritage. Harlem is known for its role as a vibrant center of culture, and125th Street is the economic and artistic heart of Harlem.

The third annual BID ON CULTURE project will consist of nineteen custom-designed banners designed by professional visual artists and hung from streetlight poles along 125th Street, from Fifth Avenue to Morningside Avenue.  The successful banner designs will celebrate Harlem’s musical legacy as well as personalities and venues closely associated with Harlem’s contribution to the history and development of music in America.

Design proposals must be submitted by email no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, April 29, 2011. The five winning submissions will be announced on May 9. The Public unveiling and installation will take place in June 2011 as part of Black Music Month and remain on display for one year. Proposals must be submitted via email to: applications@harlemhaa.org.

For more information about submission requirements, design details, and the selection process visit www.harlemaa.org or call Michael Unthank, Executive Director at 347-735-4280

                

                ###


125th Street Business Improvement District:  The 125th Street BID is a non-profit organization funded primarily from an additional tax assessment collected from the property owners within the defined boundaries. Organized in compliance with state and city laws, the property and business owners determine the services and programs needed for the district. The BID will utilize the competition to bring visibility to its streetscape improvement efforts and to enliven the community’s central business district.

Harlem Arts Alliance:  As Harlem’s arts service organization, HAA nurtures the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem and surrounding areas, and serves as a strong advocate for the health and vitality of the Harlem cultural community.

Harlem Community Development Corporation is New York State agency and a subsidiary of the NYS Urban Development Corporation dba Empire State Development Corporation that is charged with supporting community and economic development initiatives throughout Upper Manhattan through its Residential Development, Commercial Development, Urban Planning and Weatherization departments.


Media inquiries are directed to Thysha M. Shabazz at Shabazz Communications, Inc.
at 646-410-0246 (office) or 757-450-3655 (cell/text)
or via email at thysha@shabazzcommunications.com and press@harlemaa.org.


HARLEM Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street. New York, NY 10030. main: 347-735-4280.fax: 212-281-1206
www.harlemaa.org


For Immediate Release

Contact:
Thysha M. Shabazz
thysha@shabazzcommunications.com
646.410.0246 office
757.450.3655 cell/text

HARLEM Arts Alliance
will Hold First Monthly Evening Meeting on Wednesday, April 20
At Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Center
With Special Guests: Teri Coaxum and Walter E. Maxwell


Harlem, NY, April 6, 2011 – HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA), who has been providing the Arts community in Harlem and beyond since 2001 with their monthly meetings at Riverside Theatre, will hold their first evening quarterly meeting at Lt.  Joseph P. Kennedy Center Auditorium located at 34 West 134th Street, New York, NY 10037 on Wednesday, April 20 from 6:30PM-8:30PM.  HARLEM Arts Alliance monthly meeting provides networking opportunities, updates on events, artists opportunities, performances, exhibitions, and presentations from creative and interpretive artists from every field.  The evening quarterly meeting is open to HAA members, as well as the general public.

Special guests Teri Coaxum, Regional Advocate for NY, NJ, PR & USVI, Office of Advocacy U.S. Small Business Administration and Walter E. Maxwell, Director for External Affairs within the Division of Economic and Financial Opportunity at the NYC Department of Small Business Services will present at HAA’s first evening quarterly meeting.

“HAA’s agenda has expanded as a result of its outreach.  Now the volume of issues to be discussed as well as the level of participation has created a demand that cannot be easily addressed within our traditional monthly meeting format,” states Michael Unthank, HARLEM Arts Alliance, Executive Director. “HAA is also looking to really strengthen the relationship between the arts and business community and this can be enhanced through the quarterly meeting structure.”

HARLEM Arts Alliance began its Monday monthly meeting in 2001 to accommodate a growing theatre population, who were generally available on Mondays, but the meeting has blossomed, supporting not only theatre artists but dance, visual artists, designers and technicians of all kinds.  The monthly meetings in the past have been honored with readings and performances from Andre DeShields, Roger Guenveur Smith, Sonia Sanchez and Daniel Beaty.

The venue for the first evening quarterly meeting will be the famous Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Center and they are excited to open the doors of their facility to HAA. “We are pleased to collaborate with HARLEM Arts Alliance,” states Rodney Beckford, Director of Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Center. “We must start supporting theater, dance and indeed all the arts in our community and not rely on only the funded events and classes to sustain our African and African American culture."


Agenda Submission:  For HAA members and non-members who are interested in submitting items for the agenda of the evening quarterly meeting, they should submit the following to info@harlemaa.org:

•         Name/ Organization name

•         Date/Time/Place of event

•         Summary of presentation

Agenda space is limited; please send all information by Friday, April 15, 2011 at 2pm.


HARLEM Arts Alliance Evening Quarterly Meeting:

Date: Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Time: 6:30PM-8:30PM

Where: Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Center Auditorium

34 West 134th Street

(Enter on 135th Street, between 5th and Lenox Avenue)

New York, NY 10037

Monthly Meetings will continue at the first Monday of every month at Riverside Theater

                

                 ###

Media inquiries are directed to Thysha M. Shabazz at Shabazz Communications, Inc.
at 646-410-0246 (office) or 757-450-3655 (cell/text)
or via email at thysha@shabazzcommunications.com and press@harlemaa.org.

HARLEM Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street. New York, NY 10030.main: 347-735-4280.fax: 212-281-1206
www.harlemaa.org



For Immediate Release
Contact:
Thysha M. Shabazz
thysha@shabazzcommunications.com
646.410.0246 office
757.450.3655 cell/text

Tye Renwrick
tye@shabazzcommunications.com
646.410.0246 office
484.904.6808 cell/text

HARLEM Arts Alliance Presents Winter 2011 Legal Series Clinics: Providing Free Legal Consultations To Local Artist

Harlem, NY, February 16, 2011 – HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is proud to announce their Winter 2011 Legal Series Clinics providing consultations to the arts community. Artist will have the opportunity to consult with an entertainment and/or business attorney to gain professional advice on their artistic endeavors. Lillie Pop Law Group Associates will provide free 30-minute one-on-one consultations to local artist, HARLEM Arts Alliance members and anyone interested in legal services for their career.
“We often find that so many artist are setting forth with their projects without the proper knowledge on ways to solidify the business end,” states Kim George, Associate Director, HARLEM Arts Alliance.  “It is wonderful the Lillie Pop Law Group has teamed up with the HARLEM Arts Alliance to aid in supporting local artist in the Harlem community.”

Clinic Dates:
Monday, February 21, 2011
4:00PM-7:00PM
Monday, March 14, 2011
4:00PM-7:00PM

Location:
HARLEM Arts Alliance Office
Conference Room
229 West 135 Street (between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. & Frederick Douglass Boulevards)
New York, NY 10030

How to schedule a Session:
• Member can visit www.harlemaa.org, and fill out the online
Winter 2011 Legal Clinic Services form under the “Workshops” tab.

Legal Clinics Important Information:

• Clinics are by appointment only
• Open to all artist in the community
• Each 30-minute session must be scheduled in advance
• No phone or walk-in requests are accepted
• Online submissions are first come, first serve
• Sessions that exceed 30-minutes must be scheduled for a different date and a consultation fee will apply
• An additional consultation time/appointment must be discussed directly with the attorney and not HAA.
             

                ###

About HARLEM Arts Alliance
HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a not-for-profit service organization committed to the development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem and its surrounding communities. Comprised of over 750 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network, and capacity of its richly diverse membership. Counted among its members are young emerging artists as well as established and internationally recognized artists. Also represented are small grassroots organizations and major cultural institutions in Harlem and beyond. In addition, HAA maintains strong partnerships with numerous arts organization and institutions throughout New York State, the region and the nation to maintain vital collaborative efforts to promote the arts in communities.
Media inquiries are directed to Thysha M. Shabazz at Shabazz Communications, Inc.
at 646-410-0246 (office) or 757-450-3655 (cell/text)
or via email at thysha@shabazzcommunications.com and press@harlemaa.org.
HARLEM Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street. New York, NY 10030. main: 347-735-4280.fax: 212-281-1206
www.harlemaa.org



For Immediate Release

Contact:   

Thysha M. Shabazz

thysha@shabazzcommunications.com

646.410.0246 office

757.450.3655 cell/text

 

Tye Renwrick

tye@shabazzcommunications.com

646.410.0246 office

484.904.6808 cell/text

 

HARLEM Arts AllianceNow Accepting Applications for

Harlem Community Arts Fund:

Supporting Local Artist in the Harlem Community

 

Harlem, NY, February 10, 2011 - HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is now accepting applications for their Harlem Community Arts Fund. The Harlem Community Arts Fund (HCAF) grant program supports the needs and aspirations of Harlem’s artistic community.  HARLEM Arts Alliance Community Arts Fund initiative is designed to further the organizational and artistic development of artists and arts organizations.

 
"By awarding members of the Harlem arts community with financial support, we are further encouraging the advancement of the arts and setting a positive example for full engagement of the arts in the village of Harlem." States Kim George, Associate Director, HARLEM Arts Alliance "HCAF funds support arts projects in all artistic disciplines and in a wide variety of venues such as NYC parks and youth and senior community centers."

 

The HCAF will respond to proposals from eligible artists and arts organizations based in and providing services within the Harlem community bounded by 110th and 155th from Hudson River to 5th Avenue (Community Districts 9 and 10 only).  Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to attend one of the following HCAF Information Seminars:  

 

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Seminar time: 6:00-7:30PM

The Church of the Intercession

550 West 155 Street

Common Room

New York, NY 10032

 
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Seminar time: 6:00-7:30PM

Centro Cívico Cultural Dominicano, Inc.

619 West 145 Street

2nd Floor

New York, NY 10031

            

Thursday, February 24, 2011
Seminar time: 6:00-7:30PM 

Dwyer Cultural Center

258 St. Nicholas Avenue

(enter on West 123 Street)

Flex II

New York, NY 10027

Those interested in attending a seminar must RSVP. Send an email to RSVP@harlemaa.org (include HCAF Seminar in the subject) by February 21, 2011. The Application Deadline for The Harlem Community Arts Fund is Tuesday, March 22, 2011.

 

Guidelines and application materials for the Harlem Community Arts Fund are available on the HARLEM Arts Alliance website at: www.harlemaa.org (under Opportunities, Grants tab). The program is not restricted on basis of race, sexual preference, ethnicity, or religious affiliation. The Harlem Community Arts Fund grantees will be announced by Friday, June 15, 2011.

 

Major support for the Harlem Community Arts Fund is provided by the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation.

 

###

About HARLEM Arts Alliance

HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a not-for-profit service organization committed to the development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem and its surrounding communities. Comprised of over 750 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network, and capacity of its richly diverse membership. Counted among its members are young emerging artists as well as established and internationally recognized artists. Also represented are small grassroots organizations and major cultural institutions in Harlem and beyond. In addition, HAA maintains strong partnerships with numerous arts organization and institutions throughout New York State, the region and the nation to maintain vital collaborative efforts to promote the arts in communities.


Media inquiries are directed to Thysha M. Shabazz at Shabazz Communications, Inc.
at 646-410-0246 (office) or 757-450-3655 (cell/text)
or via email at thysha@shabazzcommunications.com and press@harlemaa.org.
HARLEM Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street. New York, NY 10030.main: 347-735-4280.fax: 212-281-1206
www.harlemaa.org

 

 

Media Contact:
Thysha M. Shabazz
thysha@shabazzcommunications.com
646-410-0246 office /757-450-3655 cell/text

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HARLEM Arts Alliance
Arts Advocacy Day Tuesday, February 8

Bus Trip for HARLEM Arts Alliance, Organizations & Supporters

To meet their representatives 

Monday, January 31, 2011 – HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA)will travel to the State Building in Albany, New York with local artists, organizations and supporters to meet and voice their concerns to State representatives. As a part of this state-wide day of arts advocacy, a bus will depart on Tuesday, February 8 at 6:45 a.m. from Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building (163 West 125th Street at Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard /7th Avenue, New York, NY 10027) and take constituents to Albany.  Round-trip bus transportation is $15 for the general public and $10 for HARLEM Arts Alliance members and NYC Arts Coalition members.

“Now more than ever it is critical for the arts community in Harlem to raise its voice to advocate for continued state support of the arts and for equitable funding for the arts in Harlem and for communities of color across the state,” says Michael Unthank, Executive Director of HARLEM Arts Alliance.  “With the new administration in Albany, and the continued fiscal crisis, we must voice our concern that the arts remain a priority in New York precisely because of the enormous benefits both economically and culturally that they bring to our state.”

The journey to Albany will also be an opportunity for HARLEM Arts Alliance members, supporters of the arts and other arts organizations from Harlem and all boroughs to galvanize and network. “The bus will act as a mobile conference room to strategize and network as arts organizations,” says Kim George, HARLEM Arts Alliance Associate Director.

HARLEM Arts Alliance urges all arts organizations and supporters to join this movement.  For more information call HARLEM Arts Alliance at 347-735-4280.

###

About HARLEM Arts Alliance

HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a not-for-profit service organization committed to the development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem and its surrounding communities. Comprised of over 750 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network, and capacity of its richly diverse membership. Counted among its members are young emerging artists as well as established and internationally recognized artists. Also represented are small grassroots organizations and major cultural institutions in Harlem and beyond. In addition, HAA maintains strong partnerships with numerous arts organization and institutions throughout New York State, the region and the nation to maintain vital collaborative efforts to promote the arts in communities.


Media inquiries are directed to Thysha M. Shabazz at Shabazz Communications, Inc.
at 646-410-0246 (office) or 757-450-3655 (cell/text)
or via email at thysha@shabazzcommunications.com.
HARLEM Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street. New York, NY 10030.main: 347-735-4280.fax: 212-281-1206
www.harlemaa.org


For Immediate Release
Contact:
Thysha M. Shabazz
thysha@shabazzcommunications.com
646.410.0246 office /757.450.3655 cell/text


HARLEM Arts Alliance
Honors Their Own
Members are Awarded in the Fields of
Development, Community & Culture




Harlem, NY, January 14, 2011 - HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) honored extraordinary members at their 3rd Annual Membership Celebration on Wednesday, January 12 at the Dwyer Cultural Center. Over 100 members came out to honor fellow members and the work they provide to the community. Michael Unthank, Executive Director of HARLEM Arts Alliance told award recipients that the work they are doing is shaping and molding our community and the future ,”The work our artists are producing is a representation of Harlem Culture, as well as the story of so many different cultures. It is a representation of human kind.”

 



Kim George, Associate Director, HARLEM Arts Alliance, Laura Gadson, Darryl Lacy, Deloris Garland, Juanita Evans and Michael Unthank, Executive Director, HARLEM at HARLEM Arts Alliance Membership Celebration at the Dwyer Cultural Center


Students from Harlem Children's Zone Learn To Earn Program


Hans E. Hageman, Hans Hageman & Associates, LLC


Michael Unthank, HARLEM Arts Alliance Executive Director and Yvonne Orji, Host, MC of Membership Celebration

 


Award Recipients

Kwame Brathwaite, Career Achievement Award
A long time activist, photographer and expert on the history of jazz in NYC; born in Harlem. Kwame Braithwaite became interested in photography from a friend and a relative who attended the NY Institute of Photography. Over his 30-year career Kwame has photographed many in the education, political and entertainment field and has traveled extensively throughout the world documenting countless momentous events during the 20th & 21st century.

Laura Gadson, Artist Development Award
Harlem based artist and educator Laura R. Gadson is known for her work in the art of quilting and for coordinating events for fellow artists. Her Harlem brownstone serves as her studio and private gallery.

Darryl Lacy, Community and Culture Award
Actor Darryl Lacy founded DARRYL LACY (DL) PRODUCTIONS in New York City in 1987 and has directed and produced seven plays since its inception including his latest piece Nikki G: A Portrait of Nikki Giovanni in Her Own Words.

Lenore Browne, Arts and Action Award
Her passion lies in black and white imagery that she captures and prints in a traditional wet darkroom. In 2008, Browne returned to the darkroom to study at the Educational Alliance, NYC, and create silver gelatin archival black and white prints.

Deloris Garland, Volunteer Award
After retiring from Radio City Music Hall in 2009, Deloris has committed to working 1 day a week in the HARLEM Arts Alliance office. She also assists during Harlem Week and the Kwanzaa Marketplace at the American Museum of Natural History.



About HARLEM Arts Alliance

HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a not-for-profit service organization committed to the development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem and its surrounding communities. Comprised of over 750 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network, and capacity of its richly diverse membership. Counted among its members are young emerging artists as well as established and internationally recognized artists. Also represented are small grassroots organizations and major cultural institutions in Harlem and beyond. In addition, HAA maintains strong partnerships with numerous arts organization and institutions throughout New York State, the region and the nation to maintain vital collaborative efforts to promote the arts in communities.


For additional information visit: www.harlemaa.org or call HARLEM Arts Alliance at 347.735.4280.
Media inquiries are directed to Thysha M. Shabazz at Shabazz Communications, Inc. at 646.410.0246 (office) or 757.450.3655 (cell/text) or via email at thysha@shabazzcommunications.com.

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ARTZ ROOTZ & RHYTHM CONCERT SERIES SATURDAY OCTOBER 9TH 2010


New York, NY October 7, 2010 -The Artz, Rootz & Rhythm Concert Series will be held Saturday October 9th from 1PM to 5PM at Jackie Robinson Park (145th Street & Bradhurst Avenue), celebrating the culmination of Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2010.
The festivities will be hosted by actress and comedian Phyllis Yvonne Stickney, the “Empress of Entertainment.” Ms. Stickney is a noted activist, motivational speaker, published author and poet. This outdoor event will be presented to audiences representing the intergenerational, multi-cultural mosaic of Harlem and New York City.


Featured performers include: vocalist, guitarist, and harmonica player Keith “The Captain” Gamble whose heart and soul is rooted in the Blues and Solomon Hicks, a 15 year old guitarist/singer prodigy musician who has been playing for 9 years and excels in Jazz, Blues, Classical, Gospel, R&B, Funk and classic Rock.  Also performing will be the Yaffa Cultural Center Drummers who will open the event, Sasso Japan, Kalunga Neg Mawon and the Tevin Thomas Group.

In addition to the performing artists, the back drop for the stage design features Yellow Triangles, a quilt created by a HARLEM Arts Alliance visual artist Myrna Williams (image attached).


Artz, Rootz & Rhythm is The HARLEM Arts Alliance’s signature presenting series designed as free, public, multi-disciplinary, offerings showcasing Harlem based artists and arts   organizations.  Events occur throughout the year at a variety of venues around Harlem attracting thousands of fans and audience members from Harlem, New York City and the tri-state region annually.

The HARLEM Arts Alliance is a non-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem, New York State and the nation and is comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations. For more information visit: www.harlemaa.org.

Media Contact:
Harlem Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street
New York, NY 10030
Akoshia Yoba
Phone: 347-735-4280
Email: press@Harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org

###

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STRIVERS ART CIRUCT --WALKING ART TOUR THROUGH HARLEM
HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK

New York, NY October 7, 2010 – An opening reception will be held at the Strivers Gardens Gallery (300 West 135th Street) on October 8 from 6PM to 9PM to kick off The Strivers Art Circuit; a self-guided walking tour through artist studios and galleries surrounding the famed Strivers Row Historic District of Harlem. To be held October 9th and 10th as part of Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2010, the tour includes thirteen venues from 133rd to 144th Streets.

The HARLEM Arts Alliance is a non-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem, New York State and the nation and is comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations. For more information visit: www.harlemaa.org


Media Contact:
Harlem Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street
New York, NY 10030
Akoshia Yoba
Phone: 347-735-4280
Email: press@Harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org

###

 

POST RELEASE

AT HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK  OPTIMISM PREVAILS IN THE THROES OF THE  ECONOMIC RECESSION

New York, NY October 6, 2010 - Held at the Riverside Theatre, Monday morning on October 4th, The Special Arts Advocacy Meeting was marked by the optimism of artists and arts org,anizations determined to create strategies to survive and even thrive during the nation's economic recession. Honoree Dr. Howard Dodson, Chief and Historian of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture reminded audience members that "Harlem has been established as a place where African and African Diaspora people live, create, and celebrate our centuries-long, our millennium-long, history and heritage everyday despite the economic and other struggles that confront all of us."

Special guest Kathleen Hughes, Assistant Commissioner NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, stressed thatcentral to ensuring the sustainability of arts organizations in communities of color, is the building of the next generation of arts visionaries and cultural leaders.  She noted that in the last three years " there has been a 37 percent increase in grants awarded to Harlem-based African organizations."  This is a figure that illustrates the commitment of New York City's support of arts and cultural organizations of color and represents a positive trend that must continue despite the economic recession  for the good of artists, artists organizations and the communities they serve.

Panelist Dr. Marta Moreno Vega of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute remarked, "It was wonderful to see this citywide bridging  and networking of arts organizations of color.  This strategy of increased networking, enhanced communications and creative collaborations between us during these challenging economic times is critical for the survival of many of our organizations."

The meeting opened with performances by Tony nominee Brenda Braxton and award winning actor Doug Eskew that underscored the theme of perservering during difficult times as the two stars sang a number from their upcoming musical Trav'lin soon to premiere at The New York Musical Theatre Festival. Two-time Tony nominee, Andre De'Sheilds performed an excerpt form his solo performance as Frederick Douglass, "Mine Eyes Have Seen Glory: From Douglass to Deliverance," following the award presentation to Dr. Howard Dodson.

The launch of Harlem Arts Advocacy Week ended with an evening reception a the Dance Theater of Harlem (DTH) where Virginia Johnson, Artistic Director, DTH gave a presentation about the history of the school and the current rebuilding of DTH.  Actress Tamara Tunie from the hit Television series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," made a special appearance at the reception to offer her support for Harlem Arts Advocacy Week to the delight of attendees.

On Tuesday October 5th, the Arts and Business Leadership Panels were held at Harlem Stage and echoed the sentiments of the need for organizations of color to form creative collaborations to market and sustain themselves individually and collectively. Attendees were welcomed by Patrica Cruz, Executive Director of Harlem Stage.  Featured as a guest speaker was Kim L. Jasmin, Vice President Northeast Region Community Relations Manager, of the JP Morgan Chase Foundatation. Panels were moderated by Michael Unthank, Executive Director, Harlem Arts Alliance and . Panelists included Jonelle Procope, President and CEO, Apollo Theatre Foundation, Melanie Dyer, Director of Development for Harlem School of the Arts, Frances Hill, Artistic Director, Urban Stages, Laveen Naidu, Executive Director Dance Theatre of Harlem, Regina L. Smith, Executive Director, Harlem Business Alliance, Carol Brown, Harlem Opera, Marcia Sells, Associate Vice President, Government and Community Affairs at Columbia University, Karen Witherspoon, Director, Urban and Governmental Affairs at The City College of New York, Rasul Miller, Black Equity Alliance and Joseph Wemple, Board Chair, Mrysles Institute.

The HARLEM Arts Alliance is a non-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem, New York State and the nation and is comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations. For more information visit: www.harlemaa.org.

2 PHOTOS ATTACHED - Arts and Business Leadership Panels at the Gatehouse Tuesday, October 5th

PHOTO 1: Panel members (from left to right - names and abbreviated titles) Laveen Naidu, DTH, Frances Hill, Urban Stages, Jonelle Procope, Apollo, Carol Brown, Harlem Opera, Regina L. Smith, Harlem Business Alliance.

PHOTO 2: Guest speaker Kim Jasmin, VP, JP Morgan Chase Foundation (see full title above).

Media Contact:
Harlem Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street
New York, NY 10030
Akoshia Yoba
Phone: 347-735-4280
Email: press@Harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TONY NOMINEES ANDRE DE SHEILDS AND BRENDA BRAXTON TO PERFORM AT LAUNCH OF HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK OCTOBER 4TH 2010


New York, NY September 30, 2010 - The Harlem Arts Alliance will launch its fourth annual ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK on Monday October 4th, 2010 with a special Advocacy Meeting from 10 AM - 12 noon at the Riverside Theatre (91 Claremont Avenue between West 120 & 122 Streets).
The morning will feature opening performances by Tony nominee Brenda Braxton and award winning actor Doug Eskew, two of the stars from the musical Trav'lin, the new 1930's Harlem musical featuring the music of Harlem Renaissance composer and musician JC Johnson, which will have its world premiere at The New York Musical Theatre Festival, October 11-17 at the TBG Theatre in affiliation with Walk Tall Girl Productions. They will perform several numbers to include "What's Your Story, What's Your Jive," and "Basin Street Lover with an introduction by co-book writer Gary Holmes.
Two-time Tony nominee Andre De Shields will perform an excerpt from his solo performance as Frederick Douglass entitled, “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory: From Douglass to Deliverance.”  De Shields, a distinguished actor, director, choreographer and educator is the recipient of the 2009 National Black Theatre Festival Living Legend Award, the 2009 AUDELCO Award for Outstanding Performance by a Lead Actor in a Musical/Male (Archbishop Supreme Tartuffe), and the 2007 Village Voice OBIE Award for Sustained Excellence of Performance. A renowned figure at the Classical Theatre of Harlem, in 2007 he received the Classical Theatre of Harlem Award for Sustained Excellence in the Theatre.
Dr.  Howard Dodson, Chief and Historian of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture will be presented with an award after the performances. In attendance will be special guests Kathleen Hughes, Assistant Commissioner of NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and Council Members Inez Dickens, Assistant Deputy Majority Leader and Robert Jackson.
The day will culminate with an opening reception held at The Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) at 6:00PM and will be attended by special guests Tamara Tunie of the hit television series, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," Virginia Johnson, Artistic Director of DTH and elected officials.
Geared to promote the value of the arts in the Harlem community, this series of seminars, panel discussions and events will be held at various arts and culture venues in Harlem from Monday October 4th through Saturday October 9th 2010.   The weeklong calendar of events is focused on strengthening the connection of the arts with the greater Harlem community by promoting the cross pollination of ideas from major cultural institutions, grass roots arts organizations, local businesses and the education and social services sectors. Venues will include The Dance Theater of Harlem, Harlem Stage, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, The Dwyer Cultural Center, The Hamilton Landmark Gallery and Strivers Gardens Gallery.

Funding is provided by The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, The New York Department of Cultural Affairs, New York City Council through Councilmember Inez Dickens, District 9 and Speaker Christine Quinn, Assistant Deputy Majority Leader, NYS Council on the Arts,  Con Edison, New York Community Trust and JP Morgan Chase.  Additional sponsors are the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and the Arts and Business Council NY.


The HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a non-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem, New York State and the nation and is comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations. For more information visit: www.harlemaa.org.


Media Contact:
Harlem Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street
New York, NY 10030
Akoshia Yoba
Phone: 347-735-4280
Email: press@Harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
"PRESERVING OUR CULTURE IN A CHANGING COMMUNITY"
HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK OCTOBER 6TH 2010


New York, NY September 29, 2010 -- The HARLEM Arts Alliance in collaboration with Manhattan Community Boards 9 and 10 presents an Arts Community & Community Board panel discussion on Wednesday October 6, 2010 from 5:30PM to 6:30PM at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.

 
As part of event lineup for HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK 2010, the keynote address will be given by Dr. Howard Dodson who has served as Chief of the prestigious branch of New York Public Library's Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture since 1984.  Noted for his professional devotion and expertise in developing world's leading repository for materials and artifacts on the global black experience, Dr. Dodson will be stepping down from his post in 2011 after 25 years of service.


The panel will be moderated by Michael Unthank, Executive Director, Harlem Arts Alliance. Panelists include John Reddick, Founder Harlem One Stop, Patricia Cruz, Executive Director, Harlem Stage/Aaron Davis Hall, Vince Morgan, Vice President and Community Banking Officer,TD Bank, Regina Smith, Executive Director, Harlem Business Alliance and Voza Rivers, Executive Producer, New Heritage Theatre Group and Chairman Harlem Arts Alliance.  Also in attendance will be David Weaver, Chair, Arts and Culture Committee, Community Board 10 and Linda Walton, Co-Chair, Arts & Culture Committee, Community Board 9.

 
Following will be The HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK Closing Reception from 7PM to 8:30PM  in the Langston Hughes Auditorium.
The HARLEM Arts Alliance is a non-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem, New York State and the nation and is comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations. For more information visit: www.harlemaa.org.


Media Contact:
Harlem Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street
New York, NY 10030
Akoshia Yoba
Phone: 347-735-4280
Email: press@Harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org

###
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE BUSINESS OF ART: HARLEM ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK OCTOBER 2010

New York, NY September 23, 2010 - The Harlem Arts Alliance will launch its fourth annual ARTS ADVOCACY WEEK on Monday October 4th, 2010 with a special Advocacy Meeting from 10 AM - 12 noon at the Riverside Theatre (91 Claremont Avenue between West 120 & 122 Streets). Awards will be presented tohonorees Dr. Howard Dodson, Chief and Historian of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture and Kathy Hughes, Assistant Commissioner of NYC Department of Cultural Affairs.  Also in attendance will be Council Members Inez Dickens and Robert Jackson.

The morning kick off will be followed with an art exhibition "Trash to Treasure," at the Hamilton Landmark Gallery (467 West 144th Street) where attendees will enjoy a meet and greet with the artists from 1:30 PM to 4:30PM.  The day will culminate with an opening reception held at The Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) at6:00PM and will be attended by special guests Tamara Tunie of the hit television series, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," Virginia Johnson, Artistic Director of DTH and elected officials.

Geared to promote the value of the arts in the Harlem community, this series of seminars, panel discussions and events will be held at various arts and culture venues in Harlem from Monday October 4th through Saturday October 9th 2010.   The weeklong calendar of events is focused on strengthening the connection of the arts with the greater Harlem community by promoting the cross pollination of ideas from major cultural institutions, grass roots arts organizations, local businesses and the education and social services sectors. Venues will include The Dance Theater of Harlem, Harlem Stage, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, The Dwyer Cultural Center, The Hamilton Landmark Gallery and Strivers Gardens Gallery.

Funding is provided by The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, The New York Department of Cultural Affairs, New York City Council through Councilmember Inez Dickens, District 9 and Speaker Christine Quinn, Assistant Deputy Majority Leader, NYS Council on the Arts,  Con Edison, New York Community Trust and JP Morgan Chase.  Additional sponsors are the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and the Arts and Business Council NY.
The HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a non-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations in Harlem, New York State and the nation and is comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations. For more information visit www.harlemaa.org.


Media Contact:
Harlem Arts Alliance
229 West 135th Street
New York, NY 10030
Akoshia Yoba
Phone: 347-735-4280
Email: presss@Harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org

 

###

MEDIA ALERT                                                                  
September 8, 2010

Interview Available                CONTACT:  Laura Gadson
Photo Opportunity                  347 735 4280 (office)
JPEG Available                     presss@HarlemAA.org

                                                    
A Very Special Walking Tour Through Harlem’s Art Scene

WHAT: The Strivers Art Circuit, SAC, now in it’s 3rd year, is a self-guided walking tour of Harlem Art Venues and Artist Studios that surround the Strivers Row Historic District.

WHERE: SAC covers the area from 130th street to 145th street and from 5th Avenue to St. Nicholas Avenue. This year SAC will run concurrent with the Harlem Art Walk which occurs below 125th street.


SAC Stops: Hamilton Landmark Gallery, The Children’s Art Carnival, Work Space Harlem, Canvas Paper and Stone Gallery, Shimoda Accessories, Tea Time Room, Strivers Gardens Gallery, Harlem Arts Alliance, Law Office of Jayne Denis, Gallery M, Charlie Sutton’s, The Gadson Gallery and Visionary Book Store.

WHEN: Saturday, October 9 and Sunday, October 10 from 9 AM to 5 PM

WHY:  Consisting of art studios and venues in the Strivers’ Row corridor this circuit is created to develop a hub of arts activity and there by gain increased visibility and exposure for Harlem’s visual artists. SAC, a free self-guided walking tour, will allow tour goers to view some of Harlem's visual and craft community at work in their galleries and studios.

SAC Participating Artists and Galleries:
Quilt and fiber artist Laura R. Gadson is most known for her painting like portrait quilts thought she also creates in the full spectrum of quilting and other needle arts.

Shimoda Accessories has a range of work that includes beaded jewelry, fiber and book arts.  Her jewelry is made with fresh water pearls, semi-precious stones, and various treasures from around the world.

Hamilton Landmark Gallery will host a collaborative traveling exhibition of work by Harlem Arts Alliance Sand Black Dimensions in Art artists. “Trash to Treasure”, curated by Aleathia Brown features work that uses reclaimed items created by upstate and downstate artists.

Founded in 1986, GALLERY M has been a leading force in Harlem for the representation of exceptional contemporary established and emerging artists. Featured artists: Ernest Jolly, Leslie Smith III and Mark Thomas Gibson

Canvas Paper and Stone Gallery is a contemporary fine art venue operated by Averlyn Archer which focuses on emerging and established artists in all visual media.

Strivers Gardens Gallery is operated by the Strivers Gardens Condominium located at 300 West 135th Street.
On exhibition will be the photography of Kwame Brathwaite

Jewelry designer Charlie Sutton has a passion for anything involving beads. She will showcase her creations with award winning paint and collage artist Cassandra Jennings Hall whose work is in private and corporate art collections in the New York metropolitan area.

Photographer Gabriel Antoine, quilter Robyn Mahone-Lonesome and artist Veronica Tyson-Strait are just a few of the talented artists  you will find at the Work Space Harlem artists collective. WSH is under the supervision of artist Dionis Ortiz.

Also featured on the SAC 2010 tour: T.Cleo.Austin, Lenore Browne, Wendy Leigh Curtis, Robert Daniels, Eric C. Engles, Frank Frazier, Shaunda Holloway (Sekai), Valerie T. Kirk, Beatrice Lebreton, Ibou Ndoye, Catherine Newman, Kurt Novak, and “Inside Out Artists” curated by Carolyn Stanford.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:
Rachel Sayson
HARLEM Arts Alliance
(347) 735-4478 x 255
intern@harlemaa.org
www.harlemaa.org


HARLEM Arts Alliance Introduces Step Team for the Youth at HAA Monthly Meeting


(New York, NY; August 2, 2010) The HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) showcased a performance by its newly created Step Team for the Youth (HAASTY). On August 2, 2010, the team performed at the HAA Monthly Meeting, an open monthly meeting on the 1st Monday of every month consisting of artist networking, performances, and presentations. The meeting was held at the Riverside Theatre and lasted from 10:00am to 12:00pm. The performance was a product of HAA’s new junior membership. Junior members and step team performers were Malika White, Rasheen Waters, Leroy Washington, and Demetrius Frazier.

The team was created and taught by Rachel Sayson, a summer intern at HARLEM Arts Alliance through participation in the Arts and Business Council of New York’s Multicultural Arts Management Internship Program. Practices were held throughout July at the Children’s Art Carnival. “The purpose of the step team and HAA’s junior membership is to involve the youth in Harlem's vibrant arts community and to actively develop their wonderful talents,” Rachel Sayson said. “These young artists gained confidence in the performing arts and made new friends.”

Comprised of over 700 individual artists and arts organizations, HARLEM Arts Alliance is dedicated to the development of artists of all ages. Building its youth component, HAA recently began offering free junior membership to artists ages 12-17. Benefits include a free t-shirt, HAA’s weekly and monthly e-newsletter, and access to HAA’s web-based Skills Bank. Through membership, young artists will find excellent opportunities to participate in the arts community. To join, visit www.harlemaa.org and go to Membership.

 

Photo credit: Hubert Williams
###



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 22, 2010
Contact: Darleen Reid-DeMeo
O) 202-268-8567
(C) 202-255-2421
darleen.a.reid-demeo@usps.gov

usps.com/news

Pioneering Filmmaker Immortalized on Postage
Oscar Micheaux Joins Black Heritage Stamp Series

 

NEW YORK CITY - Film director, screenwriter, producer and distributor Oscar Micheaux, who illuminated the African-American experience through more than 40 feature films, was immortalized on a U.S. postage stamp today, taking his place as the 33rd person honored in the popular Black Heritage commemorative stamp series.

Micheaux's unique storytelling ability shattered stereotypes and challenged film audiences with realistic representations of African-Americans. The stamp was dedicated today at a ceremony in Miller Auditorium at Columbia University.

"Oscar Micheaux was a transformational filmmaker and gifted storyteller with an uncompromising technique that embraced honest depictions of African-Americans," said Delores Killette, vice president and Consumer Advocate for the U.S. Postal Service. "His films not only entertained, they left audiences with a sense of encouragement, hope and inspiration."

Joining Killette at the event were Wycliffe Gordon, jazz musician and leader of the Wycliffe Gordon Quartet; Melvin Van Peebles, film director; Lisa Collins, producer, Right on Time Productions; and Jamel Joseph, chair, Film Department, Columbia University. Other events taking place in New York City to recognize the issuance of the Oscar Micheaux commemorative stamp will be held at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building on June 23 and at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn on June 24.

The stamp is designed by Derry Noyes of Washington, DC, and features a stylized portrait of Oscar Micheaux by artist Gary Kelly of Cedar Falls, IA. The artwork is based on one of the few surviving photographs of Micheaux, a portrait that appeared in his 1913 novel The Conquest.

All 33 stamp designs in the Black Heritage commemorative series can be viewed online at http://beyondtheperf.com


May 28, 2010 Contact: Dave Lewin
(O) 202-268-8567
(C) 202-255-2421
dlewin@usps.gov
usps.com/news
 
Pioneer African-American Filmmaker Immortalized on Stamps
 
First-Day-of-Issue dedication ceremony of the Oscar Micheaux 44-cent Commemorative First-Class stamps. The event is free and open to the public.
11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Columbia University School of the Arts
Miller Theatre
2960 Broadway & 116th Street
New York, NY 10199-6950

Wycliffe Gordon, The Wycliffe Gordon Quartet
Voza Rivers, Chairman, HARLEM Arts Alliance
Jamal Joseph, Chairman, Film Department, Columbia University
 
The 33rd stamp in the Black Heritage series honors pioneering filmmaker Oscar Micheaux (1884-1951) wrote, directed, produced, and distributed more than 40 movies during the first half of the 20th century. An ambitious, larger-than-life figure, Micheaux thrived at a time when African-American filmmakers were rare, venues for their work were scarce, and support from the industry did not exist. Micheaux' entrepreneurial spirit and independent vision continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and artists.
 
Forgotten after his death, Micheaux was rediscovered in the late 1960s by South Dakota historians and in the 1970s by film historians interested in early black cinema. Although only 15 of his movies are known to have survived in whole or in part, Micheaux has become a cinematic icon. In 1986, he was posthumously awarded a special Directors Guild of America award. In 1995, the Producers Guild of America established the Oscar Micheaux Award to honor "an individual or individuals whose achievements in film and television have been accomplished despite difficult odds."

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

June 14, 2010

Contact Flo Wiley:

(347) 735 4475

press@harlemaa.org