WDRC Collaborates with Whatcom Museum in it's Latest Exhibit

The WDRC was privileged to partner recently with the Whatcom Museum in two collaborative endeavors prompted by the museum's latest exhibit, "Wanted: Ed Bereal for Disturbing the Peace". This lifetime retrospective (including drawings, paintings, sculptures and more) highlights the work of local Artist Ed Bereal, and brings forth powerful and provocative images of power, race, consumerism, and politics. It is a moving, jarring, and profound collection.

Made possible by a Project Neighborly Grant from the Whatcom Community Foundation, WDRC staff were asked to design a workshop for docents to build on their skills and increase their comfort in touring the exhibit. Luke Wiesner, Program Manager, and Addie Candib, Community Engagement Manager led the workshop, which included topics on active listening, physiological responses to triggers, and discussions about managing strong emotions while staying present and engaged. The 2nd endeavor was a facilitated dialogue, "Art, Politics, and Community": A Conversation Inspired by Ed Bereal's Work. On September 21st, the International Day of Peace, 40 community members, including Ed Bereal himself, Bellingham Police Chief David Doll, Bellingham Mayor Kelli Linville, and WWU Political Science Professor Vernon Damani Johnson came together for a collaborative conversation, facilitated by Moonwater, WDRC Executive Director, and captured in real time by Geof Morgan,as graphic facilitator. The conversation centered on the intersection of participants' reactions to the art and the values present within it and themselves. This collaboration was interesting and inspiring, and the WDRC is so pleased to have the opportunity to get creative through these types of events!