Faith Ringgold is an American artist, published author, mixed media sculptor, performance artist, and intersectional activist who became famous for innovative quilted narrations that communicate her political beliefs. She taught in both the New York City Public school system and at the college level for many years. Ringgold’s artistic practice is extremely varied – from painting to quilts, from sculptures and performance art to children's books. “You can't sit around and wait for somebody to say who you are. You need to write it, paint it, and do it. Art has the power to heal and transform lives.” -Faith Ringgold

Manny Vega, a masterful visual storyteller, skillfully blends the richness of diverse homelands in his works, whether mosaics, watercolors, or drawings. His works delve deep into the heart of New York's urban diasporas, exploring the depths of the human spirit and consciousness. His creative journey spans his ancestral homeland of Puerto Rico, his spiritual connection to Brazil, and his enduring bond with El Barrio (East Harlem). He used "Art" to speak against the injustice of his era. "My art is a finely honed visual language crafted over years of creative exploration and a personal odyssey through the diverse tapestry of New York City. "The lives of my neighbors and the vibrant city itself are an ever-evolving theater, depicting our shared joys, sorrows, challenges, and universal truths." – Manny Vega

Alma Thomas was a schoolteacher and artist who developed a powerful form of abstract painting late in life. From the mid-1960s, she produced brilliantly colored and richly patterned works intimately connected to the natural world. She endeavored to infuse her work with meaning beyond racial and gender constraints. In so doing, she challenged the singularity of race.” “I’ve never bothered painting the ugly things in life. People struggling and having difficulty. You meet that when you go out, and then you have to come back and see the same thing hanging on the wall. No. I wanted something beautiful that you could sit down and look at. And then, the paintings change you.” –– Alma Thomas, ca. 1977–78

 Eric Carle was a German American designer, illustrator, and writer of children's books. He was best known for his book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, propelling him to fame. In Germany, when he was a teenager, he had to dig trenches for soldiers during World War II, which left him traumatized. He believed art could heal and wanted to give children hope through his books and art. His picture book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, first published in 1969, has been translated into over 66 languages and sold over 50 million copies. His career as an illustrator, artist, and children's book author took off after he collaborated on Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? He illustrated over 70 books, most of which he wrote, and more than 145 million copies of his books have been sold worldwide.The Very Hungry Caterpillar" story is about hope. Like the little caterpillar, you will grow up, unfold your wings, and fly off into the future. I think that whatever our eyes touch should be beautiful, tasteful, appealing, and meaningful. -Eric Carle