Art Unites Cbus Film Awards

As a Matter of Black
(Donte Woods-Spikes, 2020)

Preceded by an interview with director Donte Woods-Spikes.

“With this project I plan to show the different aspects of an everyday Columbus activist and artist healing themselves and others around them. The media usually only shows one part of the story, I want to tell the whole story,” notes Woods-Spikes.

In 2020, Columbus, Ohio, joined in solidarity with the nation in a global demonstration against injustices. The documentary As a Matter of Black, created by Donte Woods-Spikes, displays how some of Columbus's most known artists and activists work to spread awareness and healing.  
 
Adrienne Hood became an activist after her son was killed in a highly controversial shooting with Columbus Police. After seeing the healing capabilities of master artist Richard "Duarte" Brown, Adrienne and Duarte hosted a private night of healing through art for families grieving the loss of their loved ones. Ohio State graduate of the arts Francesca Miller discusses her contribution of murals to the #artunitescolumbus campaign while activist Stacey Little speaks on the removal of Christopher Columbus statues. (17 mins., digital video)

Blue Rebellion
(Cristyn Steward, 2020)

Preceded by an interview with director Cristyn Steward.

"These protests were not just about Black bodies being murdered in 2020, but all Black lives since Emmett Till," says Steward.

After watching her father die at the hands of the police, Desiree Reynolds joins the police force to be the change within the system.  (10 mins., digital video)

Our Voices: the Sounds of the Silenced
(Sterling Carter, 2020)

Preceded by an interview with director Sterling Carter.

“I want to create this documentary for a group that has not always been shown the love, respect, and thanks they deserve—this is my way of doing so. After viewing the film, I hope that the audience feels a deeper love and appreciation for black women and their unmatched determination. I also hope that they feel challenged and encouraged to find ways to join in the fight because while everyone’s protest may look different, they are all meaningful,” says Carter.

Black women have a painful history of being overlooked, marginalized, and silenced. Our Voices: the Sounds of the Silenced features thought-provoking perspectives from talented Black women who, through pain, are motivated to use their gifts as a voice to protest injustices. Their call to action fosters a nation that is more loving, kind, and just. In order to transform communities for the greater good and well-being of all, it is imperative to plot a new path forward by listening to the Sounds of the Silenced.  (13 mins., digital video)