Engagement

where art & conversation meet

Engagement activities bring people together in a shared space to connect, learn, and exchange experiences. Through discussions, workshops, and public gatherings, participants build relationships and strengthen community ties. These activities foster a sense of belonging while encouraging collective growth. Check out current engagement opportunities below:

Conversations

Join us as we come together for a real community conversation about how Operation Metro Surge is affecting our mental health, our stress levels, and how safe and connected we feel in our neighborhoods.This space is about hearing real experiences, sharing perspectives, and talking honestly about what this means for individuals, families, and our community as a whole. Come listen, come share, come be part of the conversation. Your voice matters.Join us for a series of informal conversations with artists and community leaders that hold ties with African immigrant communities and families living overseas. LEARN MORE

Family Portraits

Family Portraits are back with IP artist Tomas Leal. Please stop by to honor your own sense of belonging and community with whomever you identify as family. This session will center belonging, visibility, and the unique stories each family carries. Once the session is over, participating families will receive a link to digital copies of their images. LEARN MORE

Joy of Being

Joy of Being is a creative program that affirms joy as a powerful and necessary form of resistance, centering connection, visibility, and celebration in times of uncertainty. Led by In Progress artist TJ Lor, participants honor LGBTQ+ lives through photography, writing, and video, using personal objects, styling, and storytelling to express identity and belonging. The experience moves beyond a traditional photo session, creating space for participants to celebrate themselves and each other through intentional, art-driven expression. LEARN MORE

NORTH EnD Aid

Operation Metro Surge had a deep impact on the residents and businesses of our north end neighborhood. If you are in need of emergency support, are looking to getting involved in supporting our neighborhood, or are just looking for resources then please LEARN MORE

Occupation Stories

Community members have the opportunity to contribute to a videotaped historical record documenting experience of occupation and its impact on our idea of belonging in this nation. These recorded stories will help hold our memories and personal truths for future generations and ensure this moment is remembered through the voices of our own communities. LEARN MORE

Open Mic nights

Join us for an evening of creativity, connection, and community at In Progress Open Mic Night. This welcoming event provides a safe and supportive space for artists to share original work, works in progress, music, poetry, storytelling, spoken word, and more. Whether you're stepping onto the stage for the first time or are an experienced performer, Open Mic Night is an opportunity to be vulnerable, take creative risks, and connect with fellow artists and community members. Audience members are equally encouraged to attend, support local talent, and enjoy an inspiring evening of artistic expression. LEARN MORE

Qhia Dab Neeg

In Progress has been showcasing Hmong films and their makers since 2010 through the Qhia Dab Neeg Film Festival. . We are now working on completing a digital archive that honors 50 years of Hmong films in Minnesota. The digital archive represents a living collection of Hmong creativity and culture. Explore films, shorts, TV segments, music videos, interviews, and more, all in one place. Preserving stories of the past while showcasing the voices shaping our future. LEARN MORE

Sound Healing for All

These workshops introduce participants to singing bowls, chimes, and other instruments, exploring how sound vibration and frequency can support health and well-being. Participants will practice instruments, record and share their creations, and engage in reflection on their personal healing processes. LEARN MORE