As we question the concept of inclusivity within design, we also search for representation in all creative spaces. We noticed a correlation between the lack of Black designers of the built environment and the Black artists working within these spaces. In our next link up, we chat art meets design, discussing the challenges of incorporating original art into projects, Black collectorship, the need for more representation of Black artists in public spaces and the mutually beneficial relationship between artists/galleries and designers. Come join us at Adanne Bookshop on Wednesday, September 15th @ 6:30pm! 

This physical space is reserved for those who identify as Black makers. If you don't, we thank you for making this a safe space by participating virtually. 

This link up is a recurring dsgnrswrkshp series curated to provide resources and dialogue to challenge our design processes. To discuss, we've tapped into the community for some artistic perspective:

Cierra Britton, an independent curator and art consultant living and working in New York City. As the director of the Cierra Britton Gallery, her mission is to support and showcase the work of womxn artists of color. In Britton’s practice, she aims to provide space for artists of color to narrate their own stories about their work to ensure authentic representation. Some of Britton’s exhibits can be seen on Essence, Teen Vogue, and Artsy. Over the years, Britton has interned at the renowned Jack Shainman Gallery as well as taken positions with ARTNOIR, The Culture LP, and is spearheading her independent practice as an art dealer. She has advised clients around the world from NYC to Amsterdam, helping them add contemporary artwork to their collections while achieving their mutual goal of supporting emerging artists of color and bridging the gap between artists and patrons.

Ivan Forde, a contemporary artist based in Manhattan, working across photography, printmaking, collage, sound performance, and installation. The artist performs for the camera often outdoors or in the studio, framing himself as protagonist, antagonist, and chimerical human/animal hybrids navigating the antique structures of epic poetry to redefine contemporary notions of migration(s), memory, homeland(s) and idenity(ies) . Forde’s non-linear analysis of classic poetry about the origin of nature, the ocean, human culture, life and death, opens the possibility of reformed archetypes, alternative endings, and new beginnings. By crafting new visual epics, often depicted in shades of blue cyanotype, Forde intertwines the personal and the global to offer a transformative view of prevailing narratives that unite us across cultures, geographies and time.

Kamille Glenn, a multidisciplinary designer born and founder of dsgnrswrkshp raised in Brooklyn, NY. Her design focuses comprise of interior design, architecture & furniture design although her passion for the built environment spans across all maker disciplines. Driven by her curiosity, cohesive interiors, and keen attention to detail, she has had the pleasure of taking on some of the most interesting design challenges as an Associate at Rockwell Group in New York City. There she contributed to several groundbreaking projects alongside incredible designers, artisans and craftsmen. During her seven year tenure, her involvement has spanned from planning and concept realization to design and execution, where she can truly stretch her imagination. Prior to designing for some of the largest commercial developers worldwide, Kamille received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology and freelanced in experiential design.

MODERATED BY

Alyssa Alexander, Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, and an experienced exhibitions manager and arts administrator with a background in journalism and critical writing. She also acts as the Studio Manager, Curator and Arts Administrator for dsgnrswrkshp. Alyssa is currently in a master’s program at The City College of New York, studying art history and museum studies, she is building a curatorial practice and pursuing more in-depth cultural and art-historical research. She is dedicated to working with emerging artists and institutions to cultivate a more accessible and equitable creative economy.