The Laundromat Project invites all NYC-based artists, activists, neighbors, designers, organizers, healers, storytellers, and cultural producers to apply for the 2025 Create Change program as we explore social practices through a community engagement lens. The program will consist of a series of hybrid (virtual and in-person) convenings to engage The Laundromat Project’s community-based art pedagogy and practices, which center collaborative, cooperative, and co-created art projects. Our convenings are based on our three main learning blocks which lead the focus of each convening and are designed to ground participants in our LP Values.
The Create Change program is shaped around three learning blocks (graduated advancements in the training):
Make Art
What role does art, culture, and creativity play in making meaning, shifting narratives, and creating change in our communities? Participants examine a range of art forms across the fields of social practice and creative placemaking that align with The Laundromat Project’s approaches to cultural asset mapping and leadership development.
Build Community
How can art and cultural practices build trust and accountability with communities? Participants will explore approaches to fostering attunement with community rhythms, building reciprocal partnerships, and the art of meeting people where they are.
Create Change
Understanding the power that exists within ourselves and our communities, how do we creatively leverage power for equity and positive societal change? Participants will explore personal and collective relationships to race, power, and privilege in order to facilitate social transformation through their art and cultural practices.
ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE OVERVIEW
The Create Change Artist-in-Residence program supports the development of participatory and community-attuned creative projects by artists of color working within their communities. Projects may take place anywhere in the five boroughs either in person or virtually, across various community sites, from laundromats and urban gardens to playgrounds and community centers. The residency runs from February 2025 to December 2025.
The program requires a significant time commitment as Artists-in-Residence are expected to develop collaborative projects in-community through partnerships and engagement with neighbors, local stakeholders, and community organizations.
PROGRAM FORMAT
Up to 4 Create Change Artists-in-Residence will be selected to participate in the 2025 program. The program schedule includes the following:
OPEN CALL | TIMELINE
- Bronx : September 12 - 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- Brooklyn : September 13 - 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- Staten Island : September 20 - 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- Queens : September 23 - 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- Manhattan: September 25 - 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm