The future Is Zerø-proof: Inside Kalamazoo’s first non-alcoholic bar
Zerø, Kalamazoo’s first non-alcoholic cocktail bar, offers a sensory-rich, community-driven experience that redefines nightlife through craft, intention, and zero-proof innovation.
Maya James's Latest Articles
Meet Jennifer Hudson-Prenkert, the mission-driven visionary behind Sounds of the Zoo
“We're celebrating diversity and inclusion, bringing awareness to mental health and sustainability and creating change through music.”
Trans folx celebrate Trans Day of Visibility by sharing their artwork in Kalamazoo
To honor Transgender Day of Visibility, OutFront Kalamazoo hosted a Trans Gallery for the Art Hop in March. Social Practice Artist Maya James spoke with several artists whose work has many intersections — from cover crops to animation.
Brush the Block Mural Festival aims to paint the town vibrant in Kalamazoo
“We would very much like to have public art everywhere in our city, It conveys a message that people are invested here."
New logo and ‘arts for all’ focus unveiled at Vicksburg Arts Gala
The Vicksburg Arts Gala in November unveiled a new name, logo, and expanded commitment to increasing accessibility to the arts by adding programs that serve those who are neurodivergent or have special needs.
Subject to Review: Ed Genesis on the politics of hip-hop
Local hip-hop artist Ed Genesis recently presented a seminar on hip-hop through a social justice lens. Maya James, our social practice artist and writer, was there to 'review.' She also created a collage to accompany the piece.
10 things to know about Kalamazoo’s Black Arts and Cultural Center
Since its inception 38 years ago, the Black Arts & Cultural Center has been expanding its programming, moving locations, and even opening a new Cafe. With the Black Arts Festival coming soon, we catch up with Dani Lewis about BACC's past, present, and future.
Imagine Art N Lee provides creative space for budding and experienced artists at Crossroads Mall
"It won't paint itself, Love," reads a mural at Imagine Art N Lee, a fully stocked art experience and retail space at Crossroads Mall. Owner Nicole Lee, passionate about art, healing, and social justice, envisioned a nurturing, creative space welcoming to all.
What is a social practice artist? Kalamazoo’s Maya James, a movement pioneer, explains
Meet Southwest Michigan Second Wave's newest writer and artist, Maya James, Art Prize Vanguard winner and trailblazer who has been following her own unique path only to discover there is a name for what she does — social practice art. And she may well be a 'mother of a movement' that she invites you to join.
