Journal

Our first West Philadelphia artist residency, Conjuring Joy at the Bride (July–Sept. 2024), wrapped up earlier this month with a sweet, intimate Dance Party. We’re incredibly proud of our four artists-in-residence for their commitment to engaging our West Philadelphia community through free arts workshops, performances, and gallery showings. If… Read More

Courtesy of Dominique Nichole Photography This August, the Bride is excited to welcome our new Deputy Director – longtime supporter, collaborator, creative treasure, and friend, Nina Elizabeth “Lyrispect” Ball! A key member of the leadership team, Nina will work closely with our Executive Director Laurel Raczka, our Board, and our… Read More

Conjuring Joy at the Bride artist-in-residence Francesca Montanile Lyons & “1001 Unread Messages” Theater, visual art, and digital intimacy 1001 Unread Messages is a performance and gallery experience made from, and inspired by, text messages and other digital artifacts. It asks: what can the intimate mundanity… Read More

Conjuring Joy at the Bride artist-in-residence Colby Calhoun/Very Good Dance Theatre, “TENANTS/TENETS: PLAYGROUND RULEZ” Dance, theater, and afro-futurism PLAYGROUND RULEZ is a moment to conjure up your inner child, let them loose into playful collaboration and competition, and reflect on the things we can learn from… Read More

(Photo: “Flores under city lights,” by Cassidy Arrington) Conjuring Joy at the Bride artist-in-residence Cassidy Arrington, “Naming Ceremony” Photography, poetry, and queer identity On Naming Ceremony: “As someone with complex feelings toward my body as a mark of gender, I intend to use self portraiture, portraiture,… Read More

Conjuring Joy at the Bride artist-in-residence Matthew Armstead, “Thriving Together” Theatre, music, and social justice Thriving Together explores how we can move through the 2024 election season and thrive. We already live with political polarization, frenzied new media, and lingering pandemic stress. Rather than burn out… Read More