Impact Report
2020-2021
INTRODUCTION
The AACCC has provided a rich variety of programs that has maintained its intentionality in addressing the ever-evolving needs of our community and all its members. Like many organizations, AAACC was significantly
impacted in 2020 by COVID-19, requiring us to pivot our operations to meet the moment and provide mission critical programming. Despite the
change in the macro environment, we have continued to be a space for safety and access to human engagement in a time of need.
This period brought its own unique set of challenges that the organization faced which included: Digital Divide and Tech Response, Community Fear of Public Participation, Staff Turnover, Internal Building Maintenance, Mental Health Decline in community leaders and team.
AAACC aimed to create a platform for dialogue, empathy, and social transformation by supporting and elevating art as a medium of expression and engagement. The artistic responses to COVID-19 catalyzed broader conversations about the interconnectedness of various social issues, prompting individuals and communities to examine the systemic structures that perpetuate injustice.
Through the power of artistic expression, AAACC and community partners aimed to empower marginalized voices, challenge existing narratives and advocate for positive change. AAACC has made it a focus in the past three years to create a synergistic effect that combines Black arts, health, and wellness to revitalize our community and contribute to overall well-being and empowerment within the community.
Our Mission
The African American Art and Culture Complex is a space for Black creatives to present, gather, and learn, while being a space for all to experience Black art and culture.
Our Vision
Our Vision is to be a space for Black Creatives and Communities to thrive.
Our Values
We seek collaborations with individuals and organizations (members and/or partners) who align with our mission and core values: Creative Equity, Excellence, Freedom of Expression, Fun & Innovation and Health & Wellness.
2020
SPACE REDEFINED
In the face of unprecedented challenges during the pandemic, we redefined the use of our space, emerging as a pillar of strength for Black artists and the community. As physical and social distance threatened to isolate us, this remarkable haven transformed into a sanctuary—a space of personal expression and a refuge for collective grieving and healing.
Amidst the storm of uncertainty, our complex provided a vital space for Black artists to express their creativity, channeling their emotions into impactful works of art. Through our outdoor and virtual exhibitions and interactive platforms, our artists illuminated the physical and digital realm, transcending the barriers of physical separation. Their artistic voices resonated, igniting hope and inspiring change within our community and beyond.
These transformative experiences nurtured the spirit, fortifying our community members and providing them with the tools to navigate the challenges they faced. In the face of adversity, our complex became a guiding light, promoting well-being and emphasizing the importance of nurturing oneself as the path towards collective strength.
Facing the challenge of COVID-19, we embraced the understanding that self-care is not a luxury but a fundamental building block of resilience, deeply rooted within the fabric of our Black community.
2020 By The Numbers
2021
SPACE REUINTED
SPACE REUINTED
In the face of unprecedented challenges during the pandemic, we redefined the use of our space, emerging as a pillar of strength for Black artists and the community. As physical and social distance threatened to isolate us, this remarkable haven transformed into a sanctuary—a space of personal expression and a refuge for collective grieving and healing.
Amidst the storm of uncertainty, our complex provided a vital space for Black artists to express their creativity, channeling their emotions into impactful works of art. Through our outdoor and virtual exhibitions and interactive platforms, our artists illuminated the physical and digital realm, transcending the barriers of physical separation. Their artistic voices resonated, igniting hope and inspiring change within our community and beyond.
These transformative experiences nurtured the spirit, fortifying our community members and providing them with the tools to navigate the challenges they faced. In the face of adversity, our complex became a guiding light, promoting well-being and emphasizing the importance of nurturing oneself as the path towards collective strength.
Facing the challenge of COVID-19, we embraced the understanding that self-care is not a luxury but a fundamental building block of resilience, deeply rooted within the fabric of our Black community.
Buriel Clay Theater
AAACC is home to the 206-seat Buriel Clay Theater which serves as a site for annual theater productions, dance performances, musical concerts, film and video screenings, seminars and workshops. We also host the Sargent Johnson and Hall of Culture galleries which are dedicated to exhibiting artwork from and about the African Diaspora.
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