MEET THE PLACEMAKERS
MEET THE PLACEMAKERS
Photography by Grace O ’ Connor
Kalonji Gilchrist
Kalonji Gilchrist is a filmmaker , curator and cultural organizer . He is the Founder / Executive Director of 21 Dreams Arts & Culture and the owner of KHARI Creative . A Montgomery native and community influencer , Gilchrist prioritizes building partnerships to leverage local talent , resources and communities to amplify the power of the arts . Using visual arts exhibitions , murals , music , food , dance and storytelling , he ensures that the culture and stories of the past are honored while creating pathways for future expressions .
FUN FACTS : Out of Office : Exploring other communities and cultures inspires him and refills his creative cup . On Gilchrist ’ s Playlist : Common & Pete Rock ’ s “ We ’ re On Our Way ” Best Advice : “ Save during your ‘ feast ’ days because the ‘ famine ’ will surely come .”
Kevin King
Kevin King is a leader , arts advocate and strategist committed to using the arts to drive meaningful community change . As Executive Director of the King ’ s Canvas , he empowers artists by providing the tools and opportunities they need to thrive . Through his consulting work with Creative Community Strategies LLC , he also helps organizations and individuals integrate art and culture into community and economic development .
FUN FACTS : On King ’ s Playlist : Jonathan Michael Avant ’ s “ Purpose ” Best Advice : “ Fall in love with the problem , not the solution .” - Boyd Stephens Proudest Achievement : The birth of his only daughter , Kaiya Denise King , and creating the King ’ s Canvas .
14 CentrAL Inc !
FEATURED ARTIST
Alisa Beck
Alisa Beck is an Alabama native who has worked as an artist in Montgomery for over 30 years . She devoted six years as the Executive Secretary for the Montgomery Art Guild and spent two years traveling across five states , teaching her unique palette knife technique and endorsing art products . Her achievements include solo exhibitions , gallery representation and her impactful role in community art initiatives .
NOTABLE WORKS : Her notable works include Hope Floats , a collaboration with the Montgomery Lions Club , and she worked with the Montgomery Art Center Initiative . She also contributed to Scarecrows on Parade at Old Alabama Town and helped organize the Art Stroll .