Art informs us of a time period, an artist, the environment, or even ourselves. What is the narrative of art created in the 21st century informing? This is one of the questions Michael Thompson raises as he explores the BIPOC narrative within media and culture, and the impact of portraying truth as an artist. Michael Thompson is a multimedia artist, designer, and poet. He takes on the role of artist as archivist; collecting things, spaces, and histories to add to his art and life. Michael currently holds positions as Artist-in-Residence at The Cincinnati Art Museum and The Contemporary Arts Center. His practice utilizes painting, sculpture, poetry, and installation as he explores creative empathy, human ecology, and nuance within the black experience. Michael recently received ArtsWave’s Truth and Reconciliation Grant for his project, “Sanctuaries” which gives insight into the sacred spaces of BIPOC creatives as a manner of combatting a trauma-focused narrative within media and culture. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx