FabLab Playshop: James Baldwin
In this playshop we will explore the legacy of queer ancestor James Baldwin, the novelist, playwright, essayist, poet and activist whose vivid words, insightful commentary, and fiery activism gave voice to the experience of being Black and queer in America and has inspired generations of people all over the world to insist on the dignity and liberty of all humans. Although he was deeply involved in the African American Civil Rights movement, Baldwin was a citizen of the world, who left his native America to live in France and Turkey, and he said that the artist’s role is to “lay bare the questions that have been hidden by the answers.”
Come learn and experience the legacy of queer ancestor James Baldwin through creative writing, deep discussion, and laying bare the questions. Join us in interrogating the resonance of his words in our present day with Rotimi Agbabiaka (all pronouns)!
We will follow this instruction in our playshop: taking a close look at his biography and excerpts from his writing. We will watch clips of his appearances as well as pieces from theatre and film that have been inspired by him, including a performance by instructor Rotimi Agbabiaka, in which he plays James Baldwin. We will see how and why Baldwin had such an impact on the world.
Finally we will follow in Baldwin’s footsteps by interrogating the resonance of his words in our present day. What commonly accepted answers obscure our view of the world? What questions do we need to ask in order to remove the scales from our eyes? How can we channel the spirit of our queer ancestor in our daily lives? Come prepared to learn, think, and question.