Image Courtesy of Alicia Grullon

Our Share: Art, Yonkers, and the Politics of Urban Renewal
Presented by Purchase College

Join us for a discussion with internationally acclaimed artists to explore effective art strategies for combatting inequality in our city. This is the first of three public discussions and workshops at PC4 Yonkers about best practices in socially engaged art.

The term "urban renewal," despite its benevolent tone, has sparked major battles in the New York area in recent years. The rapid pace of change in many neighborhoods has resulted in the massive displacement of long-term residents who can't pay higher rents, and soaring profits for real estate developers. But these changes can also lead to lower crime rates, higher property values, and more jobs. As the City of Yonkers pursues urban renewal policies, what creative tactics can we use to make sure the benefits of improvements are spread equally among all residents?

Speakers include:

• Haifa Bint Kadi, Artist, Director of Community Engagement Through The Arts, Groundworks Hudson Valley, and President, Yonkers Arts Council

• Jenny Dubnau, Artist and Member, Artist Studio Affordability Project (ASAP)

• Alicia Grullon, Artist and Educator

• Christopher Robbins, Artist, Founder, Ghana Think Tank, and Assistant Professor, Purchase College School of Art+Design

• Phyllis Stevenson Fowlkes, Co-Founder of Public Space Art, Inc., a Yonkers-based arts advocacy organization

This event is organized and moderated by Tal Beery