Minneapolis Review

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is set to collaborate with Public Functionary on a series of events titled "Meet at Mia." This collaboration will include a range of programs beginning on March 20, 2025, and continuing weekly through April 17, 2025. The events are themed around the exhibition "Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys."

Tricia Heuring, Director/Curator of Public Functionary, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Public Functionary has been so inspired by this unique opportunity to connect with The Dean Collection and the ‘Giants’ exhibition—as it aligns so well with our values and vision,” she said.

The curatorial team at Public Functionary includes Maiya Lea Hartman, Yonci Jameson, Silent Fox, and Mica Grimm. They have developed programming that leverages their connections within the Twin Cities arts community. Anna Dilliard, Manager of Programming at Mia, highlighted the significance of artist-led initiatives in this partnership. “This collaboration highlights the impact of artist-led initiatives and the importance of creating space for community-driven storytelling,” Dilliard stated.

The scheduled events include:

- March 20: Opening Program

- March 27: Becoming Giants

- April 3: On the Shoulders of Giants

- April 10: Giant Conversations

- April 17: Giant Presence

Each program will feature music, film screenings, live performances, and exhibition tours curated by Public Functionary.

For more information about these events or to learn about other exhibitions at Mia, visit their website. General admission to Mia is free; however, some special exhibitions may require a fee.

Silent Fox is noted for their work across various media including watercolor and photography. Mica Grimm focuses on racial justice through community engagement projects. Maiya Lea Hartman’s work examines African Diaspora traditions through art. Yonci Jameson explores Black diasporic traditions in various forms including music and writing.

Public Functionary is an artist-led organization committed to fostering creative production among marginalized artists in Northeast Minneapolis Arts District. Meanwhile, Mia offers a vast collection spanning thousands of years and encourages creativity through its diverse exhibitions.

For further details on both organizations or upcoming exhibitions at Mia, visit their respective websites or contact them directly.