upcoming grant deadline: 05/15/2024
Li Sumpter will create and publish a limited edition, 10-page prologue episode for her three-volume epic of speculative fiction, Graffiti in the Grass, which explores the mystery and mythology behind UFO and crop circle phenomena through the lens of hip-hop, afrofuturism and indigenous traditions. Graffiti in the Grass aims to ignite the survivor spirit in us all around environmental and existential crises, migration/displacement, spiritual wellness and mental health with a focus on suicide stigmas among young women of color. She will also commission the illustration, design and printing of three unique limited edition promotional posters. Posters and publications will be distributed locally for free to communities of color in West Philadelphia with priority to young women of color, black and brown urban farmers and environmental justice artists and advocates.