TBR Projects
Commitee run projects and initative supported to grow beyond TBRs walls
At TBR, we create diverse programming to support and showcase BIPOC artists and creatives, fostering community engagement and cultural growth through initiatives such as artist residencies, curated exhibitions, a radio show, and outdoor projects that promote collaboration, visibility, and connection to nature.
These projects are extensions of The.BlkRoom’s mission and are led by dedicated project committee members who plan, execute, and secure funding to expand these programs beyond our walls. Committee members have the opportunity to build these initiatives with the support of The.BlkRoom, our staff, partners, and a member-driven workforce committed to growing and sustaining these efforts.
Learn more about these projects and discover how you can get involved.
The Bloom Residencey
The Bloom Residency for Black Women is a transformative program facilitated by The.BlkRoom and generously sponsored by Angel Bat Dawid. This initiative is dedicated to empowering Black women artists by providing them with access to TBR's creative space, vibrant community, valuable resources, and an extensive network of mentorship opportunities.
The residency invites artists to delve into their work through the unique lens of their experiences with Black womanhood, fostering a deep exploration of identity, creativity, and expression.
The.BlkRoom Podcast
The TBR Radio Show is a dynamic podcast hosted by Sharmon Jarmon, dedicated to shining a spotlight on the visionaries, community leaders, and innovative partners transforming Chicago's vibrant arts scene. This platform is your ultimate source for the latest cultural news, member highlights, inspiring community stories, and essential resources tailored for artists and creatives in Chicago.
Additionally, TBR Radio will open doors to opportunities in media, PR, and marketing workshops, empowering our community to thrive and grow. Stay tuned for engaging content that celebrates and elevates the heartbeat of Chicago’s arts industry!
The Gallery
The Hallway Gallery is a rotating exhibition space at The.BlkRoom that features work by Black and Brown artists in our community. Through a new membership tier, artists can display and sell their work for 3–6 months, with support for promotion and hosting three events.
This program promotes visibility, community engagement, and opportunities for BIPOC artists in Chicago, serving as a platform for storytelling and artistic growth.
The TBR Library
The TBR Library, curated and sourced by Silk Press Ink, is a circulating library featuring curated literature, vinyl, LPS, CDs, and different archival pieces by Black and Brown artists from various periods. This Library is a circulating ‘Give a book-Take a book’ initiative to keep pieces of history circulating in the space to inspire our community.
The project aims to inspire and foster a dedicated space for Black and Brown archival pieces, encouraging community engagement and dialogue. In addition to the library, the initiative will host programs such as book clubs, archival events, and community initiatives designed to highlight and preserve the rich cultural histories of our communities.
