As part of the weeklong Art & Literacy Festival, now in it’s 14th year, notable Omaha artists will take the stage and discuss public art in Omaha.

Watie White, Sarah Rowe, and George Garrett, III, will also discuss their recent projects, how art can reflect the local community, and how we can foster environments where all citizens feel free to express themselves through art.

The panel discussion, held at the Joslyn Castle, is free to attend, and will be followed by a performance of “Hemingway and the Lost Generation.” The performance is ticketed.

About the panelists:

Watie White is an Omaha-based painter, printmaker, and public artist. White focuses on site-specific, socially engaged installations and murals, which has resulted in dozens of partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and neighborhood communities. He currently serves as the Castle & Cathedral District Artist in Residence.

Sarah Rowe is also an interdisciplinary artist based in Omaha. She focuses on projects that bring Native American traditions to the forefront through painting, printmaking, textiles, performance, and ceremonies. This is near and dear to her hear as she is a descendent of the Lakota and Ponca peoples.

George Garrett, III, is currently the executive director of Cali Commons, located at 518 North 40th Street in Omaha. Cali Commons focuses on emerging artists. In his art practice, Garrett uses acrylic paint on a variety of different mediums, such as paper, wood, and other artwork. Garrett identifies as both African American and Native American.