Reflecting on the transformative journey of ‘Invitation to a Conversation,’ we’re deeply moved by the solidarity for gun safety in Tennessee that continues to emerge despite lack of leadership in our legislative body. In the midst of a challenging special session for public safety, this art project became a sanctuary for dialogue, grief, righteous anger and collective action, showcasing the resilience of our community and the power of collaborative art. While it is impossible to know the depths these small sparks have reached, our hope is that they have ignited fires of action and conversation in places where stagnation and silence have reigned superior for far too long.

A heartfelt thank you to bongoeast for providing the central space for us to gather and create, to herbwilliamsart for the incredible mural, to @arts4impact_ for the inspiration and to every member of our community who embraced this initiative. Your orange chairs outside your homes, symbols of unity, extended the invitation for conversation even further, reminding us that alone we are vulnerable, but together we are a powerful force for change.

May our gratitude fuel our resolve.
May our conversations inspire action.
May we stand together dedicated to a future free from gun violence.

As this installation closes, our activism does not waver. The urgency for gun safety continues with alarming determination. What will YOUR next iteration look like? What will you create to keep the conversation going? Let us know so we can come create change with you!