Why books NOW? Are books symbolic objects? Have books created political change? What is it that makes artists’ books a unique /compelling art form? Can artists’ books advance social justice for women? This panel discussion will tackle the history and current state of independent press and self-publishing by women artists making books as an art form. Join Tia Blassingame, Johanna Drucker, Alexandra Grant,Marcia Reed and Susan Sironi  in a lively discussion!

Hello Sunshine, Reese Witherspoon’s multi-media company, is collaborating with Now Be Here Art for an exciting new social media series in 2021. Once-a-month beginning in February, Hello Sunshine will spotlight one randomly selected artist from the Now Be Here directory on their Hello Sunshine Instagram channel, highlighting the artist’s work and driving their highly engaged audience to the artist’s page on the Now Be Here Art website.

The Guest Curator Initiative seeks to enhance the connection with artists featured in our directory through a thoughtful engagement with the themes, processes and contexts that inspire and inform their artwork. The program invites curators and scholars to discuss relevant aspects of an artist’s practice through a recorded, live or written conversation, article, or interview.

Wed., Oct. 25, 2017, 6:30-9:30 P.M.
Gathering and photograph of women and women identifying contemporary visual artists. RSVP required, if you would like an invitation, email freshtalk@nmwa.org. After the photograph is taken, artists will enjoy a cocktail hour while networking with representatives from nonprofit organizations in the DMV.

Sunday, October 29, 2017, 2 P.M.
Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald in discussion with Erin Christovale will discuss her career, including being the first woman to win the Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition grand prize from the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, in 2016.