Artist-in-Community Program
Client: Barnes Foundation
Scope: Project Management | Community Engagement
Location: Philadelphia
Everyday Places Artist Partnerships (EPAP) was conceived in the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic as a response to disrupted access to cultural institutions and a desire to elevate the creative work already embedded in Philadelphia neighborhoods. Initially focused in West Philadelphia, with HopePHL as an anchor partner, the program was designed to invest in social-impact artists whose practices cultivate hope, healing, and connection. The initiative draws inspiration from the founding principles of the Barnes Foundation, particularly its commitment to “art for all” – honoring both formal and informal expressions of creativity.
At its core, EPAP is an artist-in-community residency program that relies on the critical partnership between artists and third places – everyday, accessible spaces that serve as informal anchors within their communities. The program’s success is incumbent upon the role these third places already play in community life. We intentionally prioritize spaces that do not require tickets, payment, or exclusivity for participation, ensuring openness and ease of engagement. Over the years, this has included parks, publicly accessible community organizations, hair salons, local boutiques, restaurants, and senior living facilities.
This model departs from traditional residency structures that emphasize isolation or retreat, instead asking artists to wield their practice as a tool for gathering and shared experience. Since launching in 2021, EPAP has engaged more than 20 local artists working across disciplines including written and spoken word, natural fabric dyeing and sewing, and dance, serving communities in West and North Philadelphia.
As a founding partner, Tabb Management continues to manage the program, contributing to design, artist support, institutional coordination, and program evolution, now in its sixth season and expanding into new North Philadelphia neighborhoods.
Press:
- https://gridphilly.com/blog-home/2025/12/01/local-artist-teaches-garden-volunteers-how-water-gets-clean/
- https://www.phillytrib.com/lifestyle/west-philly-voices-are-being-amplified-through-barnes-partnership/article_22835dba-19ee-5a9b-978d-381ad7b5cd83.html
- https://www.inquirer.com/arts/everyday-places-barnes-west-philly-poetry-la-pearl-20210821.html
Awards: