By V.S. Santoni
Lorene Cary, founder of Art Sanctuary, an organization dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Black arts, has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Philadelphia and beyond. Established in 1998, Art Sanctuary has enriched the lives of over 15,000 participants annually, hosting esteemed artists such as The Roots, Chinua Achebe, and Sonia Sanchez.
Beyond her contributions to the arts, Cary has been deeply involved in community activism, serving as a member of Philadelphia’s School Reform Commission from 2011 to 2013. During her tenure, she spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing school safety and student well-being.
In 2015, Cary founded SafeKidsStories.com, a platform dedicated to promoting youth safety and non-violence through storytelling. This initiative evolved into #VoteThatJawn, a youth voter mobilization campaign aimed at empowering young people to engage in the democratic process.
Cary’s latest endeavor, the play “Ladysitting,” based on her memoir of the same name, has received critical acclaim since its debut at the Arden Theatre Co. in Philadelphia. Chronicling Cary’s experiences caring for her grandmother in her final months, “Ladysitting” offers a poignant reflection on family, love, and mortality.
Additionally, Cary is currently developing a play based on the Fisk Jubilee Singers, a renowned African American a cappella ensemble with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. This project promises to celebrate the cultural legacy of the Fisk Jubilee Singers while exploring themes of resilience, perseverance, and the power of music.
As a distinguished member of the University of Pennsylvania’s English faculty for nearly three decades, Cary continues to inspire students through her teaching and mentorship. Her commitment to fostering creativity and social awareness is evident in her courses on creative writing and youth activism.
Cary remains dedicated to using her platform to promote social change and artistic expression. With upcoming projects including a new libretto for the Portland Opera Company and ongoing work as a playwright, Cary’s impact on literature and the arts shows no signs of waning.
Through her unwavering dedication to storytelling and advocacy, Lorene Cary exemplifies the transformative power of art in shaping communities and inspiring positive change. As she continues to navigate the intersection of art and activism, Cary’s legacy as a trailblazer in the literary world remains unparalleled.
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