Art as Social Transformation
Roger Cummings and DeAnna Cummings (Juxtaposition Arts & McKnight Foundation)
Websites: Roger Cummings at Loeb Fellowship, Juxtaposition Arts Leadership, DeAnna Cummings at McKnight Foundation
Date: Friday May 30
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Digital Arts Research Center 108
As co-founders of Juxtaposition Arts (JXTA) in Minneapolis, Roger and DeAnna Cummings’ practices operate at the intersection of art, social justice, and community development.
JXTA functions as a “social sculpture” – a living artwork that extends beyond conventional art-making into community engagement. What began in 1995 with nine students has evolved into a comprehensive campus employing 70+ young people annually through our mentor-apprentice model.
Our work centers Black aesthetic traditions, particularly from urban environments, challenging institutions that have historically marginalized these forms. We navigate “white space” in art institutions, philanthropy, and urban development by creating interventions that reclaim public space and amplify Black creativity.
Through Environmental Design, Graphic Design, Contemporary Art, and Tactical Urbanism Labs, we’ve built a pipeline of creative talent while addressing economic disparities. This approach transforms both individuals and communities, demonstrating how art can catalyze social change and economic opportunity.
Sponsored by: Art Department Environmental Art + Social Practice MFA Program, The Humanities Institute, Unseen California