Black Futurity

Code, Canvas, & Culture

This program focuses on Afrofuturism, a creative movement that explores the intersection of Black culture, history, and technology/science fiction.

The Inspiration: Afrofuturism 101

This theme is highly culturally relevant, as it promotes innovation and historical awareness simultaneously.

View a mini-visual presentation on the core concepts of Afrofuturism.

Some books from the genre will be available for checkout.

The Creative Workshop: World-Building Lab

The Code/STEM Station 

Activity: Design a concept for an African-inspired future technology to address a collective/ community concern (e.g., sustainable housing, medical innovation, transportation).

The Art & Aesthetics Station ("Cosmic Canvas")

Activity: Create a costume, character, or city sketch for your own Afrofuturist world.
Bring the following if you have them: Sketchpads, textile scraps, and magazines/ other print media for collage. Some materials to be provided.

The Storytelling Station ("Future Lore")

Activity: Write a short spoken-word poem, a flash fiction story (100-200 words), or a script for a song/rap about a hero, villain, or event in a futuristic Black world.

Gallery of Tomorrow
Share your creations! Works may be displayed in the library upon completion, with the artists' permission.

For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact the Center for Accessibility at DCPLaccess@dc.gov or 202-727-2142 at least one week prior to the event.

Upcoming events