UPTOWNflavor

I’m pleased to introduce our readers to an online magazine where art meets activism, of note. of note was created by Grace Aneiza Ali, the arts editor for UPTOWNflavor. The chic weekly online magazine offers a listing of socially-conscious, arts-related cultural events throughout the New York metropolitan area. What makes it unique is that of note goes beyond being just another email events list. Weaved within this sophisticated, well designed e-magazine, you will find features, editorials, reviews, artist profiles, and public commentary, crafted by a team of dedicated editors. In addition, each issue features an eye catching photograph contributed by photographer Julien De Bock.

Grace wanted to create the online magazine to bridge the gap between contemporary arts and audiences of color. She strongly believes that there is a distinct need to create a synergy between the development of cultural institutions, and accessibility for every day people.

“For people of color living in under-served communities, access to the arts goes beyond entertainment. It is critically important that members of our community, both adults and youths, are motivated to value the arts as tool of empowerment-professionally and educationally.”

It was that belief that became the foundation of her mission: “Our mission is two-fold: to increase participation in the arts that celebrate people of color and to improve access to the arts for low-income families and under-served communities. We believe that greater involvement in the arts can strengthen families and foster stronger relationships within communities.”

As a result, of note has gone beyond the pages of the virtual world and has reached out to the Harlem community, developing partnerships with community-based organizations working in the areas of arts education, youth and family services, and private low-income housing development companies. Through their initiative, “Art Experiences,” they sponsor tickets to notable performances, transportation, and dinner for low-income families living in Harlem.

For Grace, of note‘s mission is personal: She was born and raised in Guyana; worked in civil rights advocacy in Washington, D.C.; lived in India while researching and writing on Indian women’s literature; and now resides in Harlem, New York City.

The work speaks for itself, so be sure to visit ofnotemagazine.org to sign up for your weekly email subscription.