Summer rhythms
A note on rest and our upcoming programs
In stereotypical eldest immigrant daughter fashion, I struggle to give myself permission to rest. Slowing down can feel tough in a world where productivity often equates self worth. I challenged myself to take an intentional pause, and know that we won’t lose momentum. Rather, it’d be refueling. BIYA BIYA pressed pause in June to reflect on a lively inaugural year. We produced 30+ events across 10+ Chicago neighborhoods and paid out over $15,000 to artists.
When we hear there’s no money in the arts – we know that’s not the truth. Recently, the Arts Alliance released a report that measures the creative sector as Chicago’s third-largest industry. This means artists workers are a significant portion of our city’s life and economics. One of BIYA BIYA’s biggest financial experiments was committing guaranteed minimums and/or bartering with our arts management expertise. We’ve seen this model boost artist morale and commitment to their creative practices. In some cases, the hustle to say “yes” to everything dims in the face of sustained relationships rooted in mutual desire for growth and stability.
The Lebanese multi-instrumentalist Karl El Sokhn, aka Reckless Darling, is a welcomed addition to Team BIYA BIYA as a Resident Artist and Project Manager. This past May, we jammed out in a drum circle at Solidarity Studios. Connecting histories to rhythm, we discussed and embodied cultural preservation. Our Rhythm Workshop was designed to help musicians develop a strong connection with their inner clock through the study of constructed rhythms and creative methods of working with the metronome. Now, you can watch the uncut workshop on Youtube! If you feel inspired to learn, Karl’s books are open for private riq and drum lessons.
As summer is here, BIYA BIYA is excited to host a new workshop at Loyola beach! We will be expressing (and stitching) our cultural traditions in public with pride.
🌹 Upcoming Events 🌹
Logan Square Arts Festival || Sunday, June 28, 6pm
BIYA BIYA’s resident boy band Billy Joel Jr. takes the Milwaukee Stage at 6pm. Join us for a free show in one of Chicago’s beloved cultural neighborhoods. And then, meet us at the afters at the Whistler for more BJJ boys joined by BIYA BIYA resident dj sotocuchis on the decks at 10pm.
Photo Embroidery Workshop || Sunday July 12, 12:00 - 2:00 pm
Loyola Beach (Rogers Park)
This 2-hour workshop will teach participants the basics of embroidery into physical photos as an adornment and meditative practice. All skill levels are welcome and all materials will be provided for use in session. Tickets on sale here. ($15-20)
Donate to our cultural fund and invest in the future of our community programming for years to come!
