The Black School

The Black School is a groundbreaking Black-centered art school committed to empowering BIPOC and ally students to drive societal change through art and design education. Rooted in radical African diasporic histories, it prioritizes local community needs, fostering critical thinking and civic engagement through creative activism.

The school offers a transformative curriculum emphasizing Black Love, healing, and self-determination, guiding students towards holistic well-being and liberation. Additionally, it hosts the Black Love Fest, a vibrant celebration showcasing student work, performances, and workshops. The Black School also houses a Design Studio, providing community-centered graphic design services, and offers a Design Apprenticeship program for creative youth.

Guided by principles of intersectional feminism, prison abolition, self-defense, community building, and environmental justice, The Black School advocates for systemic change and equity, striving for the decolonization of minds and spaces. Located at the forefront of social and artistic innovation, it embodies a vision of liberation and collective empowerment.

City

New Orleans

Country

United States

Region

N. America

Year of Creation

2016

Featured Project

Black Love Fest
In 2017, The Black School launched the first Black Love Fest showcasing The Black School’s work alongside music performances, art installations, student exhibitions, and interactive workshops. This free, one-day celebration serves as a platform to share The Black School’s vision for the future rooted in Black Love and community empowerment.

References

Desai, D. The Black School: A Radical Space for Art, Pedagogy, and Social Transformation. In Decolonial Arts Praxis (pp. 14-29). Routledge.

Ramírez, A. I., & Yoon-Ramirez, I. (2024). Introduction: Decolonial Arts, Pedagogies, and Activism across Borders. In Decolonial Arts Praxis (pp. 1-13). Routledge.

More Information

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