Friend Request - ART WEST x Very Human Social

Join ART WEST and Very Human Social for another edition of Friend Request this time fostering connection among the South and West siders from Chicago. This is not a panel or a networking event—it's a space for you to come as you are, ready to talk and share in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

This gathering is inspired by and in celebration of the upcoming release of the new film “Take 290”. The film, produced by Full Spectrum Features' Community Storytellers (CST) program, explores the dilemmas of a defeated artist from the Westside of Chicago as she searches for common ground with an art curator from the Southside.

In spirit of the film shedding light on the splintering of Black Chicago between West and South Sides, we invite community members to come for a discussion in rebending the arc of Chicago Black History.

We'll provide guided prompts to inspire meaningful conversations about tensions between Chicago’s West and South Sides. You’ll be encouraged to explore your personal stories and experiences along with others. You don’t need to come prepared with a specific story to share; the prompts are designed to facilitate connections and help us learn from one another in a relaxed, open environment. In coming together with the knowledge of our lived experiences, we hope to bridge the gap between West and South siders for a stronger Black Chicago community.

Enjoy light snacks and drinks as you engage with your neighbors, make new friends, and strengthen our community bonds. Let’s come together to celebrate our shared experiences and create new connections that last beyond this evening.

We can't wait to meet you and hear your voice in the conversation!

Full Spectrum Features is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to driving equity in the independent film industry by producing, exhibiting, and supporting the work of women, BIPOC, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ filmmakers. We also aim to educate the public about important social and cultural issues, utilizing the power of cinema to foster understanding in our communities.

ART WEST is an arts and entertainment company that has a social mission to rebrand the Westside experience through arts and culture while strengthening the ecosystem within our creative community. The founder of Art West LLC and the Art West Collective (501c3) is Alexie Young, a self taught artist, entrepreneur, and the filmmaker behind Take 290.

Very Human Social is a forward-thinking social wellness club that transforms how we discover ourselves and connect with others. Our programs catalyze self-awareness, emotional openness, critical thinking, meaningful connections, and a focus on fostering a fulfilling, ethical, and generous life.

Monday Coffee is a testament to Amanda Christine Harth & Felton Edward Kizer’s passion for coffee and the community it fosters. Monday Coffee uses their ethically sourced coffee as the starting point for making meaningful connections whether it be for networking or turning strangers into friends.

A question about accommodations is layered into the registration form. Additional details will be provided closer to the event.

Monday Coffee is a 10 minute walk north from the Kedzie Pink Line Station. The CTA #18 Bus stops at Spaulding Ave & 16th St. Free parking is available along Spaulding Ave, and Sawyer Ave. There are protected bike lanes by the venue.

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This event is part of the Community Storytellers (CST) program at Full Spectrum Features, which is partially supported by

Host or Publisher Full Spectrum Features