Hear critically acclaimed rapper, activist, and director of Sorry to Bother You, Boots Riley, in conversation with internationally renowned artist Mickalene Thomas. The two will discuss how ongoing systemic injustices inspire and influence their work, as well as the broader role of the arts in spurring dialogue, understanding, and, ultimately, change.

Before and after the talk, enjoy:

Performances by rapper/songwriter Al Rogers Jr. (featured in The New York Times); Randi Withani and Infiniti Knives; and DJ Blaqstarr

Light fare by Blacksauce Kitchen

Free admission to Monsters & Myths: Surrealism and War in the 1930s and 1940s (tickets regularly $15)

Surrealist game led by CM Campbell

Gallery Conversation in Monsters & Myths with Baltimore-based artist Jackie Milad

Photo booth, cash bar, and more

Doors open at 6 p.m. Talk starts at 7 p.m. First come, first served. Auditorium seating is limited. Overflow viewing will be available at locations throughout the Museum.

The Necessity of Tomorrow(s) is the BMA’s popular conversation series on art, race, social justice, and imagining the future(s) we want. Past conversations featured Ta-Nehisi Coates, Mark Bradford, and Hank Willis Thomas. The Necessity of Tomorrow(s) is generously sponsored by Suzanne F. Cohen and the Cohen Opportunity Fund.

Related Events:

Free Film Screenings of Sorry to Bother You – April 13 and April 17