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America 250

Mark Bradford: Layers of America

OPC commissioned artist Mark Bradford leads an engaging public conversation and participatory artmaking workshop called Layers of America. Bradford and fellow artists and thinkers discuss how everyday materials like maps, newspapers, and signage can reveal hidden histories and offer new perspectives on the American story. The program explores how the nation's history is constructed — both literally and symbolically — through layers of place, material, and memory. Following the talk, Bradford leads a hands-on artmaking workshop designed specifically for youth, encouraging them to reflect on their personal connections to their community and country. This is a rare opportunity to create alongside one of America's most celebrated contemporary artists.
Event Details
Tue, Jul 21 • 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Forum Building
Admission
$25 Please bring your confirmation email with your digital ticket(s).
An illustration in a bold-line, distorted-proportion style featuring a massive hand and arm covered in a textured collage of colorful torn paper, a hallmark of artist Mark Bradford's work. The hand holds a large, similarly textured map of the United States. In the background, the modern architectural buildings of the Obama Presidential Center campus are depicted under a pale yellow sky, with a small sign that reads "Layers of America: Mark Bradford." A tiny figure in the bottom corner looks up at the scene, emphasizing the exaggerated scale of the hand.

Speakers

  • The picture depicts a black and white photo of president Franklin Delano Roosevelt. In the picture, he stares directly out at the viewer.

    FDR

    Four terms.
    Let's see ffkfm. alfjm adfdf sdfd s sdf df. df dsfdf. sdfdfdf dfdfc
    sdfasdf. dsfsffds line for every term... yadda yaddav dfdfsdf d df. fggg dd ff Hww
    sdfsdfdssdf sdfLet's see ffkfm. alfjm adfdf sdfd s sdf df. df dsfdf. sdfdfdf dfdfc
    alfjm adfdf sdfd s sdfal
    fjm adfdf sdfd s sdf
    alfjm adfdf sdfd s sdffdf
    fdfdf

  • A black of white depiction of president George Washington sitting at a desk.

    George Washington

    The OP (Original President)

    Let's not do any special text here.

Plan Your Visit

Forum Building

The Forum Building is a vibrant community center that celebrates creativity and innovation. The Forum’s two levels are brought to life through power performances at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium, creative forms of expression in the Media Suite, and collaborative thinking in the Democracy in Action Labs. The Forum also features the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium, Tafari’s Kitchen, our Cafe, two courtyards, and one-of-kind pieces of art by Theaster Gates, Spencer Finch, and Tyanna Buie. Monday | 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Good to Know

Explore helpful resources regarding transportation, accessibility services, and on-site amenities before you arrive.

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