Project Description

Program

Civic Power Studio

The Civic Power Media Studio is a gathering space and media lab entirely dedicated to creating power in, by, and for our neighborhood.

overview
Initiatives

Program Initiatives

Overview

In our democracy, power is supposed to reside with the people—all the people, not just a privileged few.

But instead, the systems of power that govern our lives have been made for us and without us. In response, The Village and our neighbors are building a space to generate our own people power.

Located in a newly renovated and community co-designed building within The Village heart, neighbors can use state-of-the art media equipment to study how power operates; to amplify existing neighborhood power; and to build new systems of power that are rooted in care rather than control. In 2020/21, our programs will focus specifically on building public safety through community cohesion and prosperity.

Care Rather Than Control

Village receives highly competitive Artplace America award to build Civic Power Studio in North Philadelphia

Where it all began! In December of 2017, The Village of Arts & Humanities was named one of 23 awardees (out of 1000+ applicants nationally) to receive an ArtPlaceAmerica grant to build a Civic Power Studio in our neighborhood — a site co-designed with our neighborhood leaders of all ages. We give special thanks to our cofounders Lily Yeh, Big Man, Jo Jo and Arthur Hall who have taught us that art is an instrumental tool for demonstrating and enacting Power.

Featured Project

Home Court: The Hartranft Basketball Court Revival

In 2018, artists and neighbors came together to tell the story of a beloved local basketball court on the eve of its renovation by the 76ers, LISC and the City of Philadelphia. Together, they created a 2500 square foot art exhibit where generations could meet across differences, and ensure the court stays a safe and sacred place for future generations. Film by Embassy 730.

VIEW ONLINE EXHIBIT