Learning of the recent loss of Dr. John Bryant fills many at ArtWorks with sadness. There are people who make lasting imprints on your life, and Dr. Bryant was one of those individuals. His leadership at Cincinnati Youth Collaborative (CYC) helped shape the organization and the important programs which continue today, including its youth mentoring program.
Jane Keller, ArtWorks’ Senior Director of Finance and Talent, remembers Dr. Bryant with fondness from her days at CYC as CEO.
“As most know, Dr. Bryant led CYC through its formative years and beyond. His leadership was impeccable, always focused on helping children and youth to reach their dreams,” said Keller.
She also recalls Dr. Bryant dropping by CYC offices very shortly after she became CEO and asking, ‘How can I help you and CYC?’. Dr. Bryant and she talked at length which grew into an everlasting friendship. Keller’s fond memories of Dr. Bryant include his humanity to others. It was his shining attribute.
In 1995, Mayor Roxanne Qualls led a group of leaders to tour Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events program called Gallery 37. Dr. Bryant was a key leader and participant in this tour. ArtWorks was a special result of this trip and began as a summer youth employment program focused on the arts under the umbrella of the CYC the following year.
Dr. Bryant was significant in bringing the vision of ArtWorks to reality in the city of Cincinnati. In 1999, the organization officially became an independent nonprofit with Tamara Harkavy as CEO and Artistic Director. She remembers Bryant, “[He was] a giant among humans: He never wavered in his quest for equity and better opportunities for the youth of Cincinnati. He led the way showing us how important it is to treat each young person as a unique individual with opportunities and a hand up. Also, he loved good music and dancing. We definitely lost a really bright light. His legacy lives on.“
In 2006, ArtWorks honored Dr. John Bryant for his legacy and impact on the creation of ArtWorks. We smile as we share this picture above of John, remembering his love and commitment to the youth of our city. Our city and its many generations are better off thanks to Dr. John Bryant.
About ArtWorks
ArtWorks is an award-winning Greater Cincinnati nonprofit that transforms people and places through investments in creativity. The organization collaborates with community organizations and residents, businesses, governments, foundations and nonprofits to build creative works of art that bolster the region’s global reputation as an arts destination. ArtWorks employs professional artists who inspire and mentor diverse teams of youth, ages 14-21, helping them build 21st century career-readiness skills. These teams have completed more than 14,000 public and private art projects in its 25 years, including more than 200 permanent outdoor murals. Learn more at ArtWorksCincinnati.org.
