Translocal Afrofuturism Network-Inaugural Gathering

Where Art Meets Practice

Join us for our inaugural Translocal Afrofuturist Gathering, devoted to an exploration of Afrofuturism and community practice. This groundbreaking three-day event is curated by award winning author Sheree Renée Thomas and the Kheprw Institute.

Enjoy food, conversations, and build relationships as we explore the current state of Afrofuturism, examine the intersection of African culture and the future, and participate in the work that practitioners have implemented.

The Translocal Afrofuturist Gathering brings together national networks to understand the work that's being done around the world. Moving the work from the academic and art circles to the grassroots level of practice. Thought leaders, artists, historians, and innovators will ignite our imaginations to possibilities to re-imagine systems to create local spaces that nurture and support us.

This free event includes panel discussions, art installations, a fashion show, field trips, dance, and film screenings.

Let’s dream together!

AGENDA

October 24th - Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Reception & Food and FIlm - Thursday

• Afternoon: Arrival in Indianapolis and check in at the hotel.
• Evening 5p-9p: Welcome reception & film at the Kheprw Institute. Meet other attendees, enjoy Dinner at 5p, and learn about the week's activities.

October 25th - Day 2: Afrofuturism and Technology Workshop - Friday (Hybrid)

• Morning 10a-12p: Hybrid workshop on Afrofuturism and technology. Explore the intersection of African culture and the future with a focus on technological innovation.
• Afternoon 2-5p: Indianapolis Museum Tour, with a focus on African art and culture.
• Evening 6-9p: Catered dinner

Keynote Speakers:

• MAURICE BROADDUS, Resident Afrofuturist at the Kheprw Institute, Acclaimed sci-fi and horror author, Editor at Apex Magazine, Head Librarian at the historic Paul Laurence Dunbar Library

Featured Presenters:

• MILTON DAVIS, Author & Publisher, MV Media
• TIM FIELDER, Founder of Dieselfunk, Artist, Graphic Designer, Author, Curator

October 26th - Day 3: Afrofuturism Virtual Summit - Saturday

• Morning 10a-12p: Hybrid virtual summit featuring Afrofuturists from across America. Participate in panel discussions, workshops, origin stories, and community skillshare
• Evening 3-7p: Afrofuturistic Cultural Exchange, fashion show, & costumes Live Stream to showcase the creativity and talent of the Diaspora

Host: SHEREE RENÉE THOMAS, Author & Editor

Keynote Speakers:

• DR. REYNALDO ANDERSON, Temple University & BSAM Co-founder, Author, Futurist, Curator, Activist

Featured Presenters:

• CLAIRESA CLAY, Founding Director & CEO of BLERDCITY, author, film curator, activist
• DEDREN SNEAD, SUBSUME, artist, author, publsher, curator
• DR. LESLIE KENNETH ETIENNE, Indiana University Indianapolis, Director of the African Studies Program, Founding Director of the Center of Africana Studies & Culture
• Dr. GEMMICKA PIPER, Indiana University Indianapolis, Humanities Librarian & Afrofuturist

• DR. WALTER GREASON, Macalester College, CEO, Author, Historian, Economist, Activist
• YTASHA WOMACK, Author, Director, Filmmaker, Dancer, Curator
• KAILA AUSTIN, Interdisciplinary Visual Artist, Public Historian, and Community Activist

Host or Publisher Kheprw Institute