2:00 - 4:00
Don't miss the captivating screening of The God Given Talent: the Creative Life of Charles Curtis Blackwell, a poignant documentary exploring Blackwell's current creative journey, intertwined with themes of loss, love, pain and redemption. Directed by Jeff M. Giordano, filmmaker, performer, and artist, this film offers a compelling glimpse into Blackwell's life and artistry, followed by an engaging discussion and poetry performance.
Blackwell is a remarkable artist, writer, and educator based in Oakland. Despite facing challenges due to vision impairment, he has achieved local and international recognition for his work. As a playwright, his productions have graced stages in California, while his paintings have been exhibited at prestigious venues nationwide, including the African-American Museum and Library in Oakland.
Blackwell's commitment to community engagement is evident in his efforts to bring art and literature to underserved populations. He has conducted workshops in prisons, practiced art therapy, and collaborated on projects aimed at empowering marginalized communities. Through his diverse talents and unwavering dedication, Charles Curtis Blackwell continues to leave an indelible mark on the arts scene, deserving of broader recognition for his contributions to the East Bay and beyond.
NR, 70 mins., 2018. Closed captions (CC) in English.
Film & Video
Watch party and film discussions.
Poetry
Programs designed to celebrate the art of the poem, including readings and talks.
Summer Stride
Summer Stride is the Library's annual summer learning, reading and exploration program for all ages and abilities. Read and learn with the Library all summer long.