Dr. Deborah Willis, Risë Wilson, Kemi Ilesanmi, Petrushka Bazin Larsen, & Ayesha Williams
Join us for a rare and powerful in sitú gathering: Echoes of the Seed hosted by The Laundromat Project (The LP) in partnership with the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Moderated by trailblazing artist, curator, and scholar Dr. Deborah Willis, this intimate conversation brings together the architects of The Laundromat Project: founder Risë Wilson, founding executive director Kemi Ilesanmi, and first programs director Petrushka Bazin Larsen, alongside current executive director Ayesha Williams.
Rooted within one of the nation’s most revered Black cultural institutions, this gathering deepens the dialogue on legacy, self-determination, and creative power. Together, these leaders will reflect on the early seeds planted to build The LP, share stories of collective vision and radical imagination, and explore the ongoing power of art to transform lives and communities. This is a rare chance to hear directly from the leaders who shaped one of NYC’s most beloved and impactful cultural institutions.
The evening will include time for audience questions, inviting reflection, curiosity, and wisdom from our vibrant community.
Don’t miss this celebration of legacy, place, and the enduring impact of creative change.
The Laundromat Project (The LP) is an arts organization that advances artists and neighbors as change agents in their own communities. The LP is celebrating its 20th Anniversary over twelve months to honor the power of creativity and community that has shaped our work over the past two decades. Through art and culture, The LP has sparked transformation in Bed-Stuy and beyond, supporting artists and neighbors in re-imagining what’s possible. Learn more at laundromatproject.org
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
SCHOMBURG 100
Date and time
Tuesday, September 23 · 6 - 8:30pm EDT
Location
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
515 Malcolm X Blvd New York, NY 10030
FIRST COME, FIRST SEATED Events are free and open to all, but due to space constraints registration is requested. Registered guests are given priority check-in 15 to 30 minutes before start time. After the event starts all registered seats are released regardless of registration, so we recommend that you arrive early. We generally overbook to ensure a full house.