Arts writing, public programming, & publishing that builds discourse around contemporary Black art.
Announcement
State of the Field
BES reflects on the search for the 2026 Arts Writing Incubator
Big Ideas
We got a huge number of applications for this year’s Arts Writing Incubator, which focuses not on individual writers per se but people who are creating platforms to cultivate other people’s arts critical thinking. We selected 6 incredible people—learn more about them at this link—and took the opportunity to reflect upon trends, patterns, and insights from the pool as a whole. Read our thoughts by clicking this link or the image above.
ruth gebreyesus on Emily Mulenga
Limited-Edition Publication
Limited-Edition Publication
Long Live Print
We love the internet, which is why we commissioned Emily Mulenga to create work that we have embedded in online ad space throughout Seattle since Fall ‘25. We also love print projects—so we commissioned ruth gebreyesus to write about Mulenga’s work. Learn more by heading to our Publications page or go straight to Mulenga’s page. Either way, you’ll find ways to snag a copy for yourself!
New Merch
Designed by Diana Ejaita
New Things!
We have started commissioning black artists to design merch using one prompt: “You are having a black aesthetic experience.” This year, Berlin-based artist Diana Ejaita whipped up a hoodie, long-sleeve t, hat, and tote bag. You can get yours with a donation to BES! Click over to our Support page for more details.