Little Black Pearl

Little Black Pearl For 26 years Little Black Pearl has been dedicated to empowering our community through arts and STEM

The mission of Little Black Pearl is to create opportunities for youth and adults to deepen their creative involvement through the arts, cultivate their entrepreneurial skills and use the arts as a means for economic empowerment and community transformation.

03/18/2026

live in concert Saturday March 21st

A powerful conversation is coming to Chicago.Join Pigment International for “Glory! Glory!” — Salon Talk: Art, Patriotis...
03/09/2026

A powerful conversation is coming to Chicago.

Join Pigment International for “Glory! Glory!” — Salon Talk: Art, Patriotism & Civic Dialogue, an evening exploring how contemporary Black artists reinterpret one of the nation’s most recognizable symbols: the American flag. Through the perspectives of artists, cultural leaders, and civic voices, this discussion invites us to reflect on patriotism, protest, identity, and public memory.

Presented as part of the Glory! Glory! exhibition, the salon examines how symbolism can challenge audiences to think more deeply about history, belonging, and the evolving meaning of national identity.

Friday, March 13, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Zhou B Art Center
1029 W 35th Street
Chicago, IL 60609

Panelists
Vicki Heyman – American Cultural Representative, Author and Art Patron
Monica Haslip – Founder and Executive Director, Little Black Pearl
Rush Baker IV – Contemporary Artist and Associate Professor, School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Moderator
Rufus Williams – WVON Radio

Free registration available via Eventbrite.

An evening of art, dialogue, and reflection on the symbols that shape our shared story.

Nina Simone Reimagined: An Intimate Tribute with Harmony GraceExperience the timeless power, passion, and unforgettable ...
03/05/2026

Nina Simone Reimagined: An Intimate Tribute with Harmony Grace

Experience the timeless power, passion, and unforgettable music of Nina Simone like never before.

Nina Simone Reimagined is an intimate tribute honoring the legacy of one of music’s most fearless and influential voices. Led by the stunning vocals of Harmony Grace, this performance reinterprets Nina Simone’s catalog with reverence, depth, and emotional honesty—capturing the spirit of her music while offering a fresh, soulful perspective.

This evening invites audiences to slow down, listen deeply, and connect with the stories, struggle, and beauty woven through Nina Simone’s songs.

Tickets on sale at: https://www.c47worklounge.com/events-and-products/p/nina-simone-reimagined-an-intimate-tribute-with-harmony-grace

Nina Simone Reimagined: An Intimate Tribute with Harmony GraceExperience the timeless power, passion, and unforgettable ...
01/23/2026

Nina Simone Reimagined: An Intimate Tribute with Harmony Grace

Experience the timeless power, passion, and unforgettable music of Nina Simone like never before.

Nina Simone Reimagined is an intimate tribute honoring the legacy of one of music’s most fearless and influential voices. Led by the stunning vocals of Harmony Grace, this performance reinterprets Nina Simone’s catalog with reverence, depth, and emotional honesty—capturing the spirit of her music while offering a fresh, soulful perspective.

This evening invites audiences to slow down, listen deeply, and connect with the stories, struggle, and beauty woven through Nina Simone’s songs.
Get your tickets at www.blackpearl.org
This is not just a concert—it’s a shared moment of reflection, remembrance, and musical storytelling.

Calling all creative teens! This January, Little Black Pearl is your hub for beats, vocals, songwriting, and custom appa...
01/16/2026

Calling all creative teens! This January, Little Black Pearl is your hub for beats, vocals, songwriting, and custom apparel design. Join us after school on Tuesdays from 4pm-6pm and let’s create something amazing together! Ages 13-18, limited spots available.



Register online at: blackpearl.org/store/p/musicandfashion

Beginner’s Group Sewing Course (6 Week Paid Course)Ready to finally learn how to sew? Our Beginner’s Group Sewing Course...
01/16/2026

Beginner’s Group Sewing Course (6 Week Paid Course)

Ready to finally learn how to sew? Our Beginner’s Group Sewing Course is a 6-week paid program designed to give you a strong foundation—from crafting basics to sewing machine skills.
All materials and a workbook are included, so you can focus on learning and creating.
$180 for the full 6-week course
Limited seats available—secure your spot today!

12/23/2025

CREATIVITY IN ACTION. IMPACT YOU CAN SEE.
· 25 Leaders Supported
· 200,000+ Meals Prepared & Distributed
·  Hundreds Engaged Through Arts & Workforce Development
 
Your year-end gift makes this possible. Help us expand leadership, training, and access in the year ahead.

www.blackpearl.org/donate

Throwback to when Little Black Pearl students helped shape a piece of sneaker history with the Air Jordan 5 Wings. What ...
12/18/2025

Throwback to when Little Black Pearl students helped shape a piece of sneaker history with the Air Jordan 5 Wings. What started as sketches and ideas in a design workshop turned into an official Jordan Brand release featuring student-inspired artwork across the silhouette — from the wings logo to glowing details and custom illustrations that tell stories of Chicago and creativity.

This wasn’t just a shoe drop. It was a moment of access and opportunity — giving young voices a platform in an iconic design and showing what happens when community, mentorship, and design collide.

We’re proud of the students who poured themselves into this project and even prouder of the doors it opened. Throwing it back with gratitude and inspiration.

Throwback Thursday to 2016, when the Little Black Pearl Art & Design Academy dance team brought home 1st Place at the ID...
12/11/2025

Throwback Thursday to 2016, when the Little Black Pearl Art & Design Academy dance team brought home 1st Place at the IDTA Hononegah Invitational in the Hip Hop A Division. A championship moment that still defines our spirit, discipline, and creativity.

12/10/2025

Thank you to Maggie Brown and the Brown Derby Jazz Series for closing out the year with the kind of energy only this community can create. Monday night was a beautiful way to wrap 2025 — incredible musicians, a full house, and a room that reminded us why live music matters.
The series returns in March 2026.
Same vibe. Same excellence. Same commitment to art and culture on 47th Street at Little Black Pearl!
See you in the spring.

12/05/2025

Carver 47 Cafe is proud to carry Haji Healing House Blend Teas. These thoughtful blends support wellness, balance, and everyday care. Stop by and try them out. Your new favorite tea might be waiting for you.

www.carver47.com

Address

1060 E 47th Street
Chicago, IL
60653

Telephone

(773) 285-1211

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