ChiArts Unleashed 2024

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WELCOMEFROM SHOWPRODUCER

RAYMOND GOODALL, CHIARTS ‘13 TEACHING ARTIST

Thank you for joining us and supporting ChiArts tonight! As a proud member of ChiArts’ inaugural graduating class in 2013, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of arts education, even more so now being an educator at ChiArts. It’s more than just learning to paint or play an instrument; it’s about fostering creativity, resilience, and empathy.

Our mission is clear here tonight at ChiArts Unleashed: to rally the support from our community for the arts and raise funds to counter the impact of budget cuts on arts education.

Together, we can ensure that future generations have the same opportunities that shaped me and my fellow alums into who we are today.

With gratitude,

Raymond Goodall

THECAST

Ashley Johnson

Benjamin Marshall

Calvin Holmes

Crystal Arrington

Greer Hutchison

Denzel Lavell

Haley Brown

Harmony Palmore

Jonathan Vargas

Jordan Gamby

Isaac Ray

Kenthaney Redmond

Majeste Pearson

Monica Niá Jones

Nathalia Harris

Zipporah Wilson

Dance ‘18

Dance ‘13

Creative Writing ‘19

Music ‘13

Dance ‘15

Music ‘15

Music ‘13

Theatre ‘20

Music ‘14

Theatre ‘16

Theatre ‘14

Music ‘13

Music ‘15

Music ‘14

Creative Writing ‘18

Dance ‘18

THEVISUALARTISTS

Nalani Sexton

Zack Huff

Kyree Saintilus

Mekahel Butler

Raven Smith

Visual Arts ‘22

Visual Arts ‘19

Visual Arts ‘18

Dance ‘21

Visual Arts ‘18

THECREATIVETEAM

Raymond Goodall, Producer

Christian Swan, Musical Director

William O Whitehead III, Musical Director

Raven Smith, Visual Arts Lead

Imani English, Choreographer

Cedric Lewis III,

Creative Writing Lead

Theatre ‘13

Music ‘15

Music ‘14

Visual Arts ‘18

Dance ‘15

Creative Writing ‘18

SPECIALTHANKYOU FROMPRODUCER

A huge thank you to tonight’s alumni performers, my fellow Creative Team members (Christian Swan, William O Whitehead III, Raven Smith, Imani English, and Cedric Lewis III), the ChiArts and ChiArts Foundation Staff Committee (Tina Boyer Brown, Mike Przygoda, Mark J Bracken Jr., Aidan Smith, Natasha Mraz, Keenan Dava, and Karina Quintana), The Den Theatre staff, and all the volunteers who’ve supported our event!

Creative Writing Activity -“Plot Chain”

Hosted and coordinated by Creative Writing alumni, this interactive activity allows participants to add a sentence to a poem and/or short story to help build onto the plot. Participants will leave this event with a better understanding of plot structure and how it affects the journey of a story.

Visual Arts Exhibition - "Canvas of Dreams"

Featuring works from Visual Arts alumni, this exhibition delves into the intricate tapestry of our subconscious, capturing the joys, fears, and wonders that emerge during our dream state. Each piece invites you to journey through a myriad of fantastical landscapes where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur. As you traverse these vivid realms, you'll encounter the mysterious, the nostalgic, and the ordinary, all woven together to reflect the complex nature of our innermost thoughts and desires. This collection aims to illuminate the hidden corners of the mind, offering a profound exploration of the human experience through the lens of our dreams. Embark on this voyage of discovery, and see how dreams can reveal both the extraordinary and the every day in new and unexpected ways.

TONIGHT’SPROGRAM

Dance Ensemble - “What a Wonderful World”

Ashley Johnson, Benjamin Marshall

Greer Hutchison, Zipporah Wilson

Imani English

Welcome Speech

Tina Boyer Brown, ChiArts Executive Director

Sketch Comedy Special

Jordan Gamby, Theatre ‘16

Show Band Performance

Christian Swan, William O Whitehead III

Isaiah Horne, Jeremiah Cunningham

Vocal Ensembles - “Voices of Resilience”

Summertime................................George Gershwin

Lean on Me.............................................Bill Withers

Greatest Love of All......................Whitney Houston

Crystal Arrington, Denzel Lavell

Harmony Palmore, Isaac Ray, Majeste Pearson

Monica Niá Jones (String Accompaniment)

Show Band Performance

Instrumental Showcase - “Instruments of Destiny”

Haley Brown, Jonathan Vargas, Kenthaney Redmond, Monica Niá Jones

INTERMISSION - 15 MINUTES

Interlude - “Whispers of the Wind”

Calvin Holmes, Nathalia Harris, Cedric Lewis III

Grand Finale - “Seeds of Tomorrow”

The Color Purple (Reprise) from THE COLOR PURPLE

Finale B from RENT

Alumni Speech

Raymond Goodall

CASTBIOS

SHLEY JOHNSON, DANCE ‘18

ative of Chicago, IL, Ashley Johnson began her dance training at Ballet ere in River Forest, IL, and at the Chicago Multicultural Dance Center MDC) She earned her high school diploma at The Chicago High School the Arts (ChiArts) where she continued to study dance Ashley duated Magna Cum Laude with a BFA in Dance and a minor in minology from Webster University. While at Webster University, Ashley has ked with artists such as Michael Uthoff, Maggi Dueker, Dawn Karlovsky, sy Brandt, Xi Zhao, and Beckah Reed She has also been privileged to form works by Ballet Hispancio, José Limón, Tara Webbe Filomena Cacciatore, Monica Newsam, and Gregory Dawson. During college, Ashley served as a company member with the K/P Project under the direction of Kameron Saunders and Prince Lyons She has also had the opportunity to present her self -choreographed solo “Resilience” at the American College Dance Association Conference in 2022. Recently, Ashley traveled to Accra, Ghana to study traditional West African dance and Noyam techniques. Currently, Ashley is a teaching artist with South Chicago Dance Theatre and a performing artist with The Rooted Space Company She is also in her first season as company member with Dance in the Parks.

BENJAMIN MARSHALL, DANCE ‘13

Ben Marshall began training at The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) There, he was introduced to the Ballet, Modern and Contemporary dance forms, which lead him to train at various dance studios around the city of Chicago. The Chicago Multi-Cultural Dance Center - home of Homer Bryant and the Hiplet Ballerinas, Deeply Rooted with Iega Jeff and Gary Abbott, at the Lou Conte Dance Studio, and with Lizzie Mckenzie of Extensions Dance

Later, he started and lead a small dance group made up of him and his peers, performing original works for John Schmitz’s Dance Chicago showcase series, as well as producing his own shows

After graduating from ChiArts, he attended the University of Michigan. There, he worked with Camille A. Brown, Batsheva, Hubbard Street, Gallim, Sandra Torijano, Ron De Jesus, and more In 2018, he graduated from UofM, and joined the Hiplet Ballerinas in August of 2022

CALVIN HOLMES (HAPPYBIRTHDAYCALVIN),

CREATIVE WRITING ‘19

Hailing from the west side of Chicago and graduating from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), HappyBirthdayCalvin is a musical artist known for his melodic and experimental hip-hop sound. He’s also a selftaught music producer and engineer as well Calvin has made significant strides in the music industry His music has been featured in a Netflix movie titled, "Beats”, he’s collaborated with prominent artists such as G Herbo, BJRNCK, and TY-MadeIt. Calvin’s collaboration with G Herbo on a remix of his biggest hit to date, "No Friends" garnered over 30 million streams His unique style and dedication to his craft continues to make him a standout figure in the world of music

CASTBIOS

CRYSTAL ARRINGTON, MUSIC ‘13

Crystal Eve Arrington is a Southside native who graduated in The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) inaugural class, as a member of the music department with a focus in voice. After she graduated, she attended Roosevelt University up until 2015 when her passion led her to caring for young children across the city and now around the globe as she has recently completed her full spectrum doula training with Birth Justice Doula Agency and Training Academy about a year ago She can still be heard boisterously singing for the Lord with her church family and is very proud to be a part of this event.

VELL, MUSIC ‘15

a Chicago based musician and composer whose unique nd of soul, gospel, and jazz He prefers to call his sound s sound evokes the timeless essence of his influences such e, Stevie Wonder, Smokie Norful, PJ Morton, Robert Glasper, onically compiles with his own authentic sound and yet ion that is felt by all audiences in his work Lavell says it best doing music is simple: my gift was never intended for me or the world and those who experience it.” After years of ng, and collaborating for various artists, he plans to finally tell his upcoming freshman body of work

CHISON, DANCE ‘15

d in Chicago, Greer Hutchison studied the majority of her pre-high school years at Dance and Music Academy under the mentorship and teachings of Krissie Odegard-Geye. In 2011, Greer attended The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), where she trained and performed works by former director Sarah Ford Thompson, Lizzie MacKenzie, Reginald Harris, Maliwan Diemer and Brian McGinnis; along with guests from Gus Giordano and Hubbard Street. Greer studied summers at Peridance Capezio Center and the Hubbard Street Dance Chicago intensive, with a full tuition scholarship provided by the Anthony Quinn Foundation Greer graduated with her BFA from UNC School of the Arts in 2019 where she had also served as Student Body President during her senior year. There she had worked with faculty members such as Brenda Daniels, Sean Sullivan, Abigail Yager, Ming Lung-Yang, and Kira BlazekZiaii There she also studied the repertoire of Natalie Desche, Charles Zarney, Martha Graham, Kelly Maxner and Aszure Barton.

Greer has had the honor of performing professionally with UNCSA at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre in NYC as well as with Mandala South Asian Performing Arts in Chicago Post University, she has worked as a teacher and choreographer for Greensboro Performing Arts as well as UNCSA’s Acting Out program in North Carolina. This season, Greer is excited to join her third season with Trifecta Dance Collective as a Guest Artist, return to perform and choreograph with Mandala South Asian Arts as well as freelancing around Chicago. Greer is also honored to be teaching at The Chicago High School for the Arts and Chicago Multicultural Dance Center.

CASTBIOS

HALEY BROWN, MUSIC ‘13

Haley Brown is an alumnus of The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), graduating in the inaugural class of 2013 as a Flute Performance Major She then went on to Concordia University Chicago to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Flute Performance, performing in prestigious music venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York, Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, and many more.

She continues her love for music not only by continuing to perform with various Gospel Artists (including Dorinda Clark, Fred Hammond, Tye Tribbett), but also serving as the Site Manager for the Ravinia Festival’s Ravinia Lawndale Family Music School and Sistema Ravinia music education programs. Haley is forever grateful to ChiArts for preparing her to perform at such a high level, and inspiring her deep advocacy of music education for all

HARMONY PALMORE, THEATRE ‘20

Harmony Grace Palmore, hailing from Chicago, Illinois is known for her dynamic performances and rich vocals She graduated from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) and recently earned a BFA (Musical theater/Commercial music) from AMDA. Harmony has been accredited to shows such as Bronzeville the musical where she made her first Broadway in Chicago debut, she has performed off Broadway in Hairspray ,Godspell, Chicago,Testimony (an original stage play) and 20 plus other shows

Harmony had the opportunity to study under renowned Vocal and Acting coaches Lana Manson, Lena McLin and Runko Jahi She recently graced the stage of the Harris Theatre in Chicago as a member of the Adrain Dunn Singers Where she was a part of the Emmy winning album “Emancipation” as it was televised on PBS. Harmony Grace is on a fast track to fulfilling her life's dreams of becoming a Broadway Performer, Recording artist and Casting director She gives all honor to God and hopes that her Gift blesses everyone she comes in contact with

JONATHAN VARGAS, MUSIC ‘14

Jonathan Vargas graduated from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) in 2014 and continued his violin endeavors at Lake Forest College where he studied both finance and music He’s currently working in corporate finance, but eagerly looking forward to the day he can commit full time to music.

CASTBIOS

JORDAN GAMBY, THEATRE ‘16

Jordan Gamby, AKA JOY, is an on-air talent, host, writer, director, comedian, actress, activist, and community leader. Born in Chicago Illinois and raised on the cities Southside Englewood Community, Jor’ graduated from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) in 2016

Since graduating, Jor' has been apart of theatre productions, ensembles, media productions, and live radio shows, like cohosting 89.3 WKKC with Harold Lee Rush and her own evening show for 89 3 WKKC Jor’ is also an emerging YouTuber and Writer, a she produces and directs ANECDOTE, a short series. Jor' is the founder of CityWide Services, a nonprofit organization designed to serve, lead, and provide solutions for her community

ISAAC RAY, THEATRE ‘14

Isaac Ray is currently a full-time professional singer, dancer, actor, music director, vocal arranger and recording artist His Debut R&B project “LOVE GAMES” was released in September of 2022. His theatre credits include: Vocal Arranged: “THE SALON” ( Black Ensemble Theater)

Casted in: Jersey Boys (Mercury Theater)The Gospel At Colonus (Getty Villa) The Gospel At Colonus (Court Theatre) A New Attitude: A Tribute To Patti Labelle, A Time Machine: Tribute to the 80s (Black Ensemble Theater) Isaac is also the music director for the Inspirational Voices at Homewood Flossmoor High School Isaac also currently sings with 3 corporate wedding bands BKO CHICAGO, The District, and Vitality Chicago Isaac wants to thank his family, friends, and God for favoring his life.

KENTHANEY REDMOND, MUSIC ‘13

Born in Chicago, and graduating from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) in 2013, Kenthaney Redmond is a flutist, and composer. He gained ocal recognition in the city with his band the Kenthaney Redmond Quintet The group was formed with the idea of exploring the intersection between rock and jazz while also incorporating new and original compositions from the band members. The success of this group led to various performances around Chicago at notable venues including Navy Pier, The Chicago Jazz Fest, and Fulton Street Collective

As a performer Redmond has played with several notable Chicago artists including Rene Avila, Micah Collier, and Sam Thousand. Additionally, he graduated in the inaugural class of The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), was recognized as a Luminarts Fellow in Jazz (2021) and graduated from the Berklee Global Jazz Institute (2022)

CASTBIOS

MAJESTE PEARSON, MUSIC ‘15

Majeste Pearson made her National Television debut as a contestant on Season 2 of The Four on Fox. Prior to, she studied Professional Conservatory for Performing Arts at The New York Film Academy on a Talent based scholarship From Broadway to Carnegie Hall, Majesté has graced stages around the world

In 2018, she launched a nationwide school tour, promoting arts education & the power of self expression This artist, teacher, and advocate give thanks to her spiritual & musical mentors, for assisting her on the path to fulfilling her destiny.

MONICA NIÁ JONES, MUSIC ‘14

Monica Niá Jones was born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL. Monica Niá was a part of the second graduating class of The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) in 2014 as a violinist in the Music Conservatory In 2018, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Business and Special Events from Arizona State University and holds a Certificate in Marketing and Communications for Fashion & Luxury Brands from the Complutense University of Madrid. Monica Niá is an accomplished dancer and violinist, studying at the Alvin Ailey School, Chicago Multi-Cultural Dance Center, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Northwestern University, and the Hyde Park Suzuki Institute.

In June of 2022, Monica Niá became Miss Illinois She went on to compete at the Miss America Competition in December of 2022, where she walked away as a finalist and America’s Choice after raising over $54,000 Monica Niá is the co-finance owner of the fitness studio HOTWORX Chicago River North, which has been open for over a year and is in the works of opening two more studios in the Chicagoland area This fall, Monica Niá will pursue her M S in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations

NATHALIA HARRIS, CREATIVE WRITING ‘18

Nathalia is a writer from Chicago’s northwestern suburbs. After graduating from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) in 2018 she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Stephens College, where she honed her skills in fiction, narrative writing, and transmedia storytelling She is currently working as a Marketing Coordinator at Erika's Lighthouse, a nonprofit organization that curates curriculum and educates students about mental health

Nathalia has published eight pieces of creative writing, ranging from short stories to long form journalism, in various publications formats. She is proud of her achievements as a creative journalist at Stephens Life Magazine, where she covered campus stories and events with originality and style She is highly interested in breaking into creative spaces and continuing to collaborate with other writers and artists.

ZIPPORAH WILSON, DANCE ‘18

Zipporah Wilson, originally from Chicago, Illinois trained with Homer Hans Bryant of Chicago Multicultural Dance Center in conjunction with her education at The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) under the direction of Sarah Ford Thompson At ChiArts, she was given the opportunity to dance with Thodos Dance Chicago, and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater. Graduating from New York University in 2022, receiving her BFA in Dance, she worked with Choreographers such as David Dorman, Shamel Pitts, Pamela Pietro, and Chuck Wilt Upon studving abroad in Florence, Italy, she's had the pleasure of working with choreographers, Roy Assaf, Sade Alleyne, Vangeline Theater, and Ananya Dance Theater.

CREATIVETEAM BIOS

RAYMOND GOODALL, THEATRE ‘13

Raymond Goodall is a well seasoned professional in the world of dance, with over 11 years of teaching dance across major cities from Chicago to New York to Los Angeles. Raymond has honed his skills and nurtured countless aspiring dancers His training spans a diverse range of styles, including ballet, jazz, musical theatre, tap, hip-hop, and modern dance Notably, he was part of the first graduating class at The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), where he specialized in Musical Theatre. After earning his BFA in Musical Theatre, he relocated to Los Angeles to further pursue his career There, Raymond not only performed as an actor and dancer, talent manager, but also contributed to the local arts scene by choreographing for LA-based musical artists. Raymond’s commitment to excellence and deep understanding of dance makes him a valuable asset in evaluating and celebrating the artistry of fellow performers

CREATIVETEAM BIOS

RISTIAN SWAN, MUSIC ‘15

tian Swan is a versatile musician who quickly gained recognition gh jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and the gospel genres. He has shared stages acclaimed artists like Najee, Blair Bryant, Frank McComb, Phil Perry, n Williams, and local jazz legend Bobby Watson Alongside his hing role at the Chicago High School for the Arts and entrepreneurial its, Christian passionately produces and performs with artists dwide, viewing music as a timeless means of self-expression. Through cts like 'MXMRYS, ' 'The Swan Brothers Collective' , and 'The Culture ed, ' Christian embodies innovation while honoring the legacy of jazz

WILLIAM O WHITEHEAD III (WOW), MUSIC ‘14

Born in San Diego, California, William O Whitehead III known as Wow spent 25 years of his life on the West Side of Chicago Music is in his blood, especially through his father William O Whitehead Jr who gave him his first gig at St. James Unity Baptist Church at the age of six. Being raised in a musical family influenced Wow to pursue a career in music and he attended The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), graduating in 2015. He credits ChiArts for preparing him to be a professional musician and creator

Wow continues to direct and perform behind artists at events like Summer Fest, The Taste of Chicago, Sofar Sounds, Audio Tree and more. Wow strives to create music that touches the world, inspiring creators to be themselves and let the music speak through them

RAVEN SMITH, VISUAL ARTS ‘18

Raven Smith is a figurative oil painter currently located in Chicago, IL She began her fine art training at The Chicago High School for the Arts in 2014 and graduated in May 2022 with her BFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Currently her work explores the escapist nature of cinematography and analyzes color psychology relationships Raven has shown work in venues such as Navy Pier (Expo Chicago) , The Museum of Science and Industry ( Black Creativity), New York Academy of Art and a public park within the Oakland community of Chicago. In 2023 Raven provided her first ever artist grant available for artists ages 16-25 and is now working in preparation for the continuation of her newest brand ESCAPADE | Exhibitions that will create curated and immersive events that aid in the unique collaboration between the arts.

CREATIVETEAM BIOS

IMANI ENGLISH, DANCE ‘14

A native of Madison, WI, Imani credits her early training to her mother, Karen Smith-English, and the Madison Professional Dance Center’s performing company She has received scholarships from The Wisconsin Dance Council, The Anthony Quinn Foundation, Dance Chicago, and was also awarded the Rahm Emmanuel Scholarship to attend intensive programs at River North Dance Chicago Ms English is a 2014 graduate and Valedictorian of The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) There, she performed repertoire from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Muntu Dance Theater, the Joffrey Ballet, and performed with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Memoria. Upon graduation from ChiArts, Imani joined DanceWorks Chicago in 2014 and in 2016 joined Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s DBDT: Encore! where she spent two seasons Ms English and has been on the faculty of the Dallas Black Dance Academy, The Chicago Multi-Cultural Dance Center, Steps Dance Center, and The Madison Professional Dance Center She has also taught for prestigious summer intensives in the Chicago area including The River North Chicago summer program, “Made In Chicago” Dance Intensive presented by The Auditorium Theater, DanceWorks Chicago’s Dance360 program, and the Deeply Rooted Dance Theater Summer Intensive. Imani has been a ballet instructor at The Chicago High School for the Arts for the past two years and a modern instructor for Visceral Dancer Center’s youth and adult programs since July of 2020. Most recently, Imani humbly joined the faculty of Extensions Dance Center.

CEDRIC LEWIS III (WESTPUNK), CREATIVE WRITING ‘18

Originating from Chicago, IL, The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) ‘18 alum, Westpunk is an artist renowned for his innovative approach to music production and creative writing. For over 8 years, Westpunk has been producing experimental hip-hop beats that defy genre conventions, pushing the boundaries of sound and storytelling His music serves as a canvas for introspection and emotional exploration, reflecting a profound connection to his personal experiences and the urban landscape that inspires him. In parallel, Westpunk has honed his skills as a creative writer over 14 years, specializing in poetry that delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the transformative power of artistic expression His lyrical prowess is a testament to his deep-seated belief in the healing potential of art, shaped by his own journey where music became a lifeline and a means of profound self-expression. Collaborative by nature, Westpunk has collaborated with notable Chicago-based artists such as HappyBirthdayCalvin, contributing his unique writing and production style to a diverse range of projects that resonate with authenticity and creative ingenuity. Driven by a passion to harness the therapeutic aspects of art, Westpunk continues to evolve artistically, exploring new sonic landscapes and pushing the boundaries of creativity Through his music and poetry, he seeks to inspire, uplift, and connect with audiences on a profound level, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

VISUALARTIST BIOS

NALANI SEXTON, VISUAL ARTS ‘22

Nalani Sexton is a 2022 graduate from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) and now Chicago-based visual artist working across photography, sculpture, and various other mediums. utilizing an intuitive and conceptual approach, nalani reflects on and embodies the intersection of past/present/future along with transformation and the reality of navigating mental health experiences. Her concepts often fluctuate with growth and ever changing perceptions especially influenced by family and culture. She embraces processes and phases - in relation to self or the physical work her pieces are to show the viewer her humanity and to archive personal and familial legacy

ZACHARY HUFF, VISUAL ARTS ‘19

Zachary Huff is a digital and film photographer based in Chicago, Illinois. His artistic journey began at six years old and continued at The Chicago High School of the Arts and Columbia College Chicago, where he honed his skills and developed a distinctive approach to photography. Zachary's work has been featured in prominent venues such as the Weinberg Gallery, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Zhou B Art Center Zachary’s photography is driven by a deep commitment to creating images that resonate with the communities and cultures he depicts He draws inspiration from cultural policy, fascinating individuals, diverse locations, and race relations. His work is characterized by its ability to bring empathy and honesty to complex people and themes Through his lens, Zachary aims to offer viewers new ways to see things that we see everyday, challenging perceptions and encouraging a deeper understanding of the world around us. His photographs invite audiences to connect with the subjects and stories he captures, fostering a sense of community and shared experience

KYREE SAINTILUS , VISUAL ARTS ‘18

Kyree Saintilus is an American illustrator from Chicago, Illinois, focusing on sequential art and animation. These pieces are often fantastical and supernatural short comics that often discuss how individual experiences inform the body, its growth, and its change. His colorful work has appeared in the Chicago Cultural Center, the Black Biennial at the RISD Museum, and the Society of Illustrators Kyree graduated from The Chicago High School of the Arts (ChiArts) in 2018 and received his BFA from Rhode Island School of Design.

VISUALARTIST BIOS

MEKAHEL BUTLER, DANCE ‘21

Mekahel Butler graduated from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) in 2021 and is the founder and owner of Globabies Clothing, a worldwide apparel brand

SUPPORTCHIARTS ENTREPRENEURS

The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) is Chicago’s first public high school for the arts. With disciplines in Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts, ChiArts provides its scholar-artists with a donor-funded pre-professional arts training program paired with a CPS-funded college-preparatory academic curriculum. ChiArts opened its doors in 2009 and has graduated 12 classes of scholar-artists at a rate between 92-100% each year. ChiArts is the only public arts high school in the nation that actively recruits novice-level students. Learn more at chiarts.org.

ABOUTCHIARTS ABOUTCHIARTS FOUNDATION

ChiArts Foundation was established in January 2021 to support arts education opportunities for, and inspire and nurture current, future, and former students of The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts). As ChiArts’ arts conservatories are donorfunded, the Foundation’s key objectives are to provide annual fundraising support for ChiArts’ five arts conservatories, support outreach through community partnerships, develop marketing and public relations activities for ChiArts, and increase alumni engagement and build community through alumni support. Learn more at chiartsfoundation.org.

SCANTODONATE

ChiArts: Unleashed was founded and produced by ChiArts Alumni with the support of staff teams from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) and ChiArts Foundation. To learn more about how you can give back to ChiArts, visit chiartsfoundation.org. To keep up with ChiArts news and performances, visit chiarts.org and follow @ChiArtsHS on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

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