TED Talks Daily A love story about the power of art as organizing | Aja Monet and Phillip Agnew
Feb 21, 2020
Aja Monet, a passionate poet and activist, joins Phillip Agnew, a cultural critic and co-founder of Smoke Signals Studio, to share their inspiring love story. They explore the deep connection between art and activism, discussing how creativity can mobilize communities. The couple highlights the role of their community art space in fostering resilience and solidarity, while also addressing societal struggles. Throughout their conversation, they illustrate how art serves as a powerful catalyst for social change and empowerment.
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Phillip's Upbringing and Activism
- Phillip Agnew's upbringing in Chicago shaped his early life through music and sermons.
- His involvement in organizing began at Florida A&M University after Trayvon Martin's murder.
Aja's Artistic Journey
- Aja Monet, raised in Brooklyn, found solace in art forms like poetry and music.
- She later discovered the power of poetry to affect change while at Sarah Lawrence College.
Meeting in Palestine
- Aja and Phillip met during a trip to Palestine with a delegation of artists and organizers.
- Despite their initial disagreements, they fell in love and began a relationship.