The studio habits of artists offer unexpected parallels to the work of public policy. In this interactive conversation, Center for Racial Justice Visiting Fellow Holly Bass will share her process for her upcoming UMMA exhibition which explores the 250th anniversary of America, and asks, "What truths, if any, do we as Americans collectively hold?" The talk will also explore ways we can practice aligning our actions with our values to implement policy more effectively.

An informal art activity will take place in the Great Hall during the reception for those who would like to participate.

The event is co-sponsored by the Initiative for Democracy and Civic Empowerment and the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA).

Lunch from Jerusalem Garden provided.

About the speaker
Holly Bass is an award-winning, socially-engaged artist working across multiple disciplines including dance, theater, visual art and writing. She has collaborated with governmental agencies, cultural institutions, nonprofit organizations and academic communities to create innovative artistic experiences that foster connection among groups of strangers. Her artwork can be found in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. She was a founding member of DC WritersCorps which sent her into schools, community centers and women's shelters to teach poetry workshops. She continues to travel the country and the world, using the arts to build community and transform the social culture of classrooms, workplaces and public spaces.