Kate Wolff

Women have made an indelible imprint on popular culture, style, and the entertainment industry. From early 20th century Blues and jazz singers like Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday to more contemporary pop, Hip Hop, and Indigenous music artists, their presence in the performance arena has not only influenced cross cultural style but has also served as a narrative on social consciousness and the politics of race and gender. In a discussion led by scholar and author Salamishah Tillet, Performance and the Politics of Style will explore some iconic and, perhaps, lesser known artists who have taken performance to a new level, asserting their own narratives of artistic and political freedom in ways at times appealing and controversial.