Artist Talk: Bisa Butler On Purpose.

What does it mean to create with purpose?

As part of the 25th Newark Arts Festival opening night, internationally acclaimed artist Bisa Butler joins Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and scholar and former Express Newark Director Salamishah Tillet for an intimate conversation exploring the ideas, experiences and intentions behind her work. Following the conversation, acclaimed vibraphonist and composer Stefon Harris takes the stage with Blackout featuring Alexis Morast for a live performance. Taking place at Express Newark during the NAF2026 Festival Kickoff, this limited-capacity program brings together visual art, conversation and live music for a special opening-night experience.

Please note: This is a limited-capacity, separately ticketed experience taking place during the free Newark Arts Festival Kickoff. A Festival Kickoff RSVP does not guarantee admission to the artist talk.

The 25th Newark Arts Festival is powered by Newark Arts Council and supported by: Prudential, New Jersey State Council on the Arts, City of Newark, Newark Arts and Education District, Newark Alliance, Hanini Group, Express Newark, The Newark Museum of Art, NJPAC, Russo Development, Edison Properties, Newark City Parks Foundation, Arts Ed Newark and Newark Public Schools.

This event is free with a suggested donation. Your support helps Newark Arts Council continue creating programs, opportunities and resources for artists and our community.