Description
As we strive for a more equitable world through arts-based practices, it becomes imperative to delve into the essence of creative exploration itself. How can we tap into imagination to reshape reality and create the world we want? And how can we more mindfully invite marginalized humans to participate in the creative practice? Join us for an end of the year celebration and community conversation with Betsaleel “Bets” Charmelus, facilitator, artist, and CEO of ArtistYear.
In this interactive workshop we’ll engage in collaborative exercises designed to foster a collective understanding of creative potential, while also respecting the personal nature of creative expression. These activities aim to model softness, fluidity, and vulnerability in learning spaces, encouraging educators to rethink traditional classroom dynamics, their own privilege, language and assumptions about learning and teaching. We hope to see you there!
Bets Charmelus-Presenter Bio:
Betsaleel “Bets” Charmelus (he/him) is a dedicated facilitator, community advocate, and an auditory storyteller. He’s collaborated with respected entities like the Stockton Rush Bartol Foundation, Moore College of Arts & Design, Rowan University, New Victory Theatre, Drexel University, TEDx, the Maryland Department of Education, and the Philadelphia School District.
Through community advocacy, Bets has supported survivors of sexual trauma through the JJPI’s B.O.S.S Program, helped lead the anti-violence initiative Beyond the Bars, and championed local Philadelphia grassroots efforts for Black men’s mental health.
Now, as the CEO of ArtistYear, Bets works to expand arts access in schools that receive Title 1 funding across America. As an artist, he has traveled coast to coast, collaborating with a myriad of musicians. Bets is deeply passionate about finding & claiming new spaces, building strong, inter-dependent communities & exploring the difference between questioning oneself and asking oneself questions.
