Press Release

Likhaya, a 501(c)(3) Evanston-based non-profit incubator with a mission to empower artists through community and entrepreneurship, is thrilled to announce the launch of “Likhaya Labs,” a new free monthly series of participatory art activities designed to foster creative expression and community connection. This series will serve as a platform for both member and non-member artists to collaborate, show their work, and engage in meaningful dialogue through visual and musical arts.

In 2025, Likhaya Labs will embark on a thematic journey, building awareness of “The Attention Economy.” We will address how social media algorithms designed to increase user engagement may be corroding humanity’s ability to build healthy relationships with others in our community, and how Silicon Valley’s focus on keeping users on their screens has a direct link to the rise of authoritarianism in our world.

Likhaya Labs will explore the vital role of art and face-to-face fellowship in navigating challenging times. Each monthly event will unfold as a chapter in a larger narrative, offering a space for collective expression and empowerment.

The inaugural event, "Portraits of the Everyday: A Prologue," will serve as an introduction to Likhaya, its member artists, and the overarching vision for the 2025 series. This prologue will provide a glimpse into the upcoming chapters, setting the stage for a year of impactful artistic exploration.

“Our past experiences in organizing similar events have reinforced the power of art to process the complex emotions arising from current events,” said Zarina N Docken, Chief Communications Officer and cofounder of Likhaya. “Through fellowship and art, we hope to offer not only a respite from the mental exhaustion, but also to inspire action.”

“We believe that art has the power to heal, inspire, and empower," said Jeremy Docken, President and co-founder of LIkhaya. "Likhaya Labs is a space for our community to come together, express themselves, and find strength in shared creativity. In 2025, we are committed to exploring the vital role of art in navigating these challenging times, and we invite everyone to join us on this journey.”

About Likhaya

Likhaya is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a launchpad for artists, offering them resources, mentorship, performance opportunities, and community to thrive as entrepreneurs in the creative industry.

Event Details

Date & Time: Sunday, April 27th, 1-4pm
Location: Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St, Evanston, IL 60201, Studio 106. Metered parking lot.
Activities: Instruction and community participation in visual arts and songwriting. Designed for ages 10 and up. All ages welcome. Snacks and light refreshments will be provided.
Cost: Free! (Donations are welcome): Please click "Donate & Tickets" to RSVP. Limited to 50 participants.

Portraits of the Everyday-A Prologue: Likhaya Labs Event 1 of 10

By Likhaya

Portraits of the Everyday-A Prologue: Likhaya Labs Event 1 of 10

Likhaya Labs - A Free Monthly Community Art Series Exploring "The Attention Economy" Through Creative Expression

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