Interview with Tendani Mpulubusi El

Artist Tendani Mpulubusi El states his many roles in the southeast Washington, D.C. community: grassroots person, Ward 8 Arts Commissioner of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, youth mentor, professional artist, filmmaker, painter, historical researcher, ordained minister, musician, and a family man through his contribution to his family and the community. Tendani explains he discovered his purpose very early on in his life; he likes to share his experiences with others and give himself to his community. He explains what creativity means, his creative process, what hinders his creativity and productivity, and how Ward 8 inspires him. Tendani explains how he conveys the importance of art and the meaning of creativity to his community, and how he gets people involved in the arts in Ward 8. He discusses issues in the Ward 8, specifically the problems people have to overcome, and what could help Ward 8 residents overcome their issues and problems. Tendani talks about connecting with the elders and youth in his community, and the residents and artists of Barry Farms. He talks about his efforts to have the artwork of Barry Farms art club displayed at the Kennedy Center Mayor Arts Awards, and the documentary about Hillsdale/Barry Farms, which he produced. Tendani also talks about the conflict between individualism and interdependence in society, and how nature demands interdependence for individuals to be successful. He states artists needs a community of artists to be successful, and the need for Ward 8 to set up a community-based art institution to be able to compete for and gaining funding to meet individual artist needs on an institutional level.

Interview. Dated 20110317.