Mary Bowman Arts In Activism Award

By Charlotte Robinson, February 28, 2023

The National AIDS Memorial announced that Bobbi-Angelica Morris currently at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. & Joseph Taylor at Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore are the most recent recipients of the Mary Bowman Arts in Activism Award. The Award honors the life of the poet, advocate, author & singer Mary Bowman who passed away from AIDS in early 2019 at the age of 30. John Cunningham, Chief Executive Officer of the National AIDS Memorial stated, “During Black History Month, we are especially pleased to support poet & spoken word performer Bobbi-Angelica Morris & painter Joseph Taylor with our most recent Mary Bowman Arts in Activism Awards. Bobbi-Angelica’s poetry & commitment is creating space for marginalized voices & intersectional identities to express themselves freely & creatively. Joseph Taylor uses his artistic talent to uplift the voices within the Black community by visually amplifying their challenges & struggles while simultaneously illustrating their grace, heroism & power.” Funded through a generous multi-year grant from ViiV Healthcare the Award offers support to artist-activists who through their creative practice inspire individuals & communities & make a positive impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS while advancing social justice. The awardees receive $5,000 each. Marc Meachem, Head, U.S. External Affairs, ViiV Healthcare concluded, “This Award supports young artists & activists like Joseph & Bobbi-Angelica who use their creativity & unique perspectives to highlight our shared humanity & to make change through their art. Like Mary Bowman, their work shows how culture can break down stigma & deepen connections with people to activate positive change.” The next round of awards will open March 1st 2023 with applications accepted until the deadline of July 15th 2023. 

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