EVENT ORGANIZER/HOST

Curated by Brittini Ward, the Black Arts Festival transformed Prescott, AZ, into a vibrant hub celebrating Black culture and artistry. This groundbreaking event created a vital space for African American artists to showcase and sell their work, fostering deeper understanding of the relationship between Black culture and art. The festival actively built and strengthened relationships among institutions, organizations, and individuals across the greater Prescott community, including Black-identifying residents.

Attendees experienced a rich tapestry of artistic expression, including captivating spoken word performances, dynamic dance, compelling theater, interactive displays, stunning photography, live music, diverse art exhibits, and insightful presentations. The festival proudly featured artist Pamela Henry Walker, a powerful performance by former Black Panther Mama Charlotte, and thought-provoking discussions with speakers like Afoya Madzimoyo, co-founder of AYA Educational Institute, and educator/organizer Dawn Demps. A highlight was the featured play, "Excerpts of Being Colored" by Jarvel Williams.

By creatively showcasing aspects of the Black experience, broadening the efforts of the MLK Peace and Justice March Committee, and emphasizing the importance of culturally inclusive events, the Black Arts Festival made a significant and lasting contribution to Black History in Prescott, AZ.

On July 30, 2025, from 2:00-5:00 PM, The Irwin House Art Gallery in Detroit, MI, hosted the insightful OFF THE MIC Poets Panel Discussion, an event meticulously crafted by Brittini Ward. This unique gathering was designed to build a vital bridge between seasoned poets and up-and-coming voices in the spoken word community.

The afternoon featured a captivating panel discussion, expertly led by Brittini Ward, which included the esteemed talents of Aurora Harris, Gabrielle Knox, Sheezy Bo Beezy, Omari Barksdale, One Single Rose, and Sparrow. Beyond the stimulating conversation, the event also incorporated engaging elements such as a live music collective poem activity, a reflective poet's altar space, and a vibrant atmosphere with food and drink vendors. The OFF THE MIC Poets Panel Discussion truly celebrated the power of poetry and fostered deep connections within Detroit's rich literary landscape.

The A Poem for Mama Writing Series offered a unique and deeply personal way to celebrate mothers this past Mother's Day. I crafted custom poetry by first engaging in heartfelt conversations with clients. They shared intimate details about their mothers—their personalities, passions, and the special bond they shared, including childhood memories, hobbies, and favorite activities. I listened intently, letting the conversation flow naturally and gleaning insights from between the lines to weave together truly beautiful, personalized narratives. Every commissioned poem resonated deeply; clients were consistently satisfied, and mothers were moved to tears of overwhelming joy.

The Sunrise Detroit Open Mic was a vibrant hub of artistic expression in the heart of Detroit, which I proudly co-organized alongside ShotxShot Studios. Beyond being a stage for local talent, this event embodied the spirit of Sunrise Detroit, a marketplace that bridges generations, builds community, supports emerging creators, and elevates local businesses. It was truly the meeting place of the many different worlds of Detroit. Attendees enjoyed a rich tapestry of spoken word and performances, while also engaging with dedicated vendors who prioritized Mind, Body, and Soul Alignment, offering both powerful artistry and a commitment to holistic wellness.

EVENT ORGANIZER/HOST

The Motown Artistry Cookout: A Detroit Cultural Feast

For two consecutive years, The Motown Artistry Cookout, passionately orchestrated by Brittini Ward, was a vibrant celebration held at The Irwin House Art Gallery in the heart of Detroit. Fusing community spirit with profound artistic expression, each year saw over 50 people gather for this unique event. The cookout commenced with an evocative opening drumming ceremony and the pouring of libations, setting a soulful tone. Attendees savored offerings from a diverse array of food and drink vendors, alongside unique dishes generously brought by select chefs within the community.

The event buzzed with activity, featuring engaging activity stations presented by various local organizations and businesses, including DoItDetroit's immersive gaming station and The Divine Living Organization's strategic chess table station. A highlight was the insightful Creators Panel, which brought together esteemed figures such as Bryce Detroit, Eric Thomas, Joel Greene, Mama Sol, Marsha Music, and Peace Bell. The Motown Artistry Cookout truly embodied Detroit's rich cultural tapestry, fostering connection, creativity, and community spirit.

The Sound Circle, an enchanting event organized by Brittini Ward, brought together community members of all ages for an unforgettable intergenerational experience. Set against the serene backdrop of the water at Gabriel Richard Park on a beautiful sunny day, participants gathered to create music in perfect harmony. Various instruments, including the soulful harmonium, rhythmic djembe drum and talking tama drum, expressive saxophone, unique melodrome, and resonant xylophone, blended to create a truly magical soundscape. Attendees left feeling deeply rejuvenated and charged, ready to embrace the rest of their day with renewed spirit.