FAQ

[1] How do I register?

Fill out this FORM 

or

Send a short statement of interest to Connect@stuffstud.io. Early Registration closes May 1st. Late Registration is open until May 15th, 2025.

[2] What happens after I register?

You'll receive welcome materials, access to the members portal, pre-workshop reflections, and details about our first gathering in May 2025.

[3] Can I be involved without participating in the workshops?

Yes! You can join our community showcases in Fall 2025, follow our public updates, or explore opportunities to support through volunteering or sponsorship.

[4] Will there be future cohorts or similar workshops?

Yes, we plan to offer iterations focused on Queer and Disability Aesthetics in 2026. Join our mailing list to stay informed about upcoming opportunities.

[1] Who can participate in this workshop series?

This workshop series is specifically designed for Black-identified individuals [18+]. Phase 1 and 2 are a closed cultural practice for Black participants. The community showcases in Fall 2025 will welcome a broader audience.

[2] Do I need artistic or storytelling experience?

No specialized skills required—just your lived experience and willingness to engage. This space honors all forms of expression and participation.

[3] I'm not based in Minnesota. Can I still join?

Absolutely! While we're Minnesota-based and funded, we welcome Black-identified participants from anywhere to join our online and hybrid sessions.

[4] What's the time commitment?

The workshop unfolds across three phases from May through November 2025. Each phase involves approximately 2-3 sessions. Detailed schedules will be provided upon registration, with options for asynchronous participation when needed.

[5] How much does it cost to participate?

The entire workshop series is 100% FREE, thanks to funding from the Minnesota State Arts Board's Creative Individuals grant.

[1] What exactly will we be creating together?

Through collaborative processes, we'll identify and develop 10 powerful, authenticated Black archetypes with their life lessons, brought to life through visuals and sound. These will form the foundation of a public interactive experience in Fall 2025.

[2] How are the workshop sessions structured?

Sessions blend reflective writing, guided discussions, collaborative storytelling, and creative expression. Each activity offers multiple ways to engage, honoring different comfort levels and participation styles.

[3] What if I need to miss a session?

We understand life happens. Sessions will be recorded (with participant permission) and materials made available on the members-only page. You can engage asynchronously and rejoin the process at any point.

[4] Is this therapy?

While this workshop draws on therapeutic principles and is facilitated by a licensed mental health professional, it is not therapy. It's a creative, healing-centered space focused on cultural reclamation and identity exploration.

[5] What kind of accommodations are available?

We provide transcripts, closed captioning, descriptive alt text for visuals, and have a dedicated Disability Access point person to ensure quality service. Contact connect@stuffstud.io with specific accommodation requests.

[1] How do online sessions work?

Online sessions take place via secure video conferencing with options for camera on/off and voice/text participation. All materials and links will be provided through our members-only portal.

[2] What technology do I need to participate?

A device with internet access is the basic requirement. For optimal experience, a computer or tablet with audio capabilities is recommended, but we can work with whatever technology you have available.

[3] Will sessions be recorded?

Sessions may be recorded for documentation and to allow asynchronous participation, but only with explicit permission from all participants. Your privacy and comfort are prioritized.

[4] How do I access the members-only resources?

After registration, you'll receive login credentials to access our members portal where all resources, session recordings, and collaborative tools are housed.

[1] What does "FAMILIAR|UNFAMILIAR" mean?

The name reflects our exploration of what feels familiar in Black identity that has been obscured by colonial narratives, and what feels unfamiliar but has been imposed upon us. We work in this dynamic space between recognition and reframing.

[2] What are "authenticated Black archetypes"?

These are complex, nuanced representations of Black experiences that move beyond colonial stereotypes and tropes. Through our collective process, we identify, refine, and authenticate these figures based on our lived wisdom.

[3] What's meant by "double consciousness" in this context?

Drawing from W.E.B. Du Bois's concept, we explore the experience of seeing oneself both through one's own eyes and through the distorted lens of white society. The workshop creates space where this "twoness" can be recognized and temporarily suspended.

[4] What is the "staticky middle space"?

This refers to how colonial narratives become physically internalized, creating interference patterns that disrupt clear self-perception.