100 Black Voices
100 Black Voices is a community-driven portrait and storytelling project documenting Black people across generations, from infancy to elders, through intentional portraiture and personal testimony. The goal is to create a living archive that honors identity, continuity, and presence.
We are looking for 100 People To join us February 25th, 2026 form 2pm to 7pm. More information below.
This project will culminate in:
A gallery exhibition
A printed book
A long-term visual archive
Why This Matters
Black representation is often fragmented, stylized, or limited to specific age ranges and narratives. 100 Black Faces intentionally resists that by presenting Blackness as expansive, generational, and self-defined.
GUEST EXPERIENCES
Event Time & Location?
Time: 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Location: Chicago, IL
The event will take place at two private locations approximately 10 minutes apart.
Free parking is available.
Exact locations will only be shared with verified participants.
Who We’re Looking For?
We’re inviting Black people across generations to participate.
Priority will be given to:
Individuals of all ages, including elders 80+
Families with young children under 7 and elders 65+ (VIP priority)
What to Expect?
A short, guided portrait session ( 2minutes per person )
Participation in the video portion is optional and must be indicated during sign-up.
Dress Code?
Come as you are.
Authentic, everyday clothing is encouraged.
How the Photos Will Be Used?
Images will be curated into:
A limited-edition book
An in-person art gallery exhibition
Verification Process?
To protect participants and the integrity of the project:
All participants must apply in advance
Submissions are reviewed before approval
Approved participants receive exact location details
Walk-ins will not be accepted
How to Sign Up?
Apply using the sign-up link
Select your demographic and a 30-minute time slot
Complete a short survey
Indicate interest in the optional video portion
Wait for approval and confirmation email.
meet the
artist
Jordran J
Born in Chicago and raised in Indiana, Jordan J has dedicated his career to photographing African American families with an emphasis on the individual. His work prioritizes people over props, using minimal styling and natural retouching to ensure nothing distracts from the subject themselves. As the owner and lead photographer of Avery Creative Studio, Jordan creates a calm, intentional studio environment focused on comfort, collaboration, and timeless imagery that reflects who his clients truly are.
meet the Producer
T star
Born in Chicago and raised in Indiana, Jordan J has dedicated his career to photographing African American families with an emphasis on the individual. His work prioritizes people over props, using minimal styling and natural retouching to ensure nothing distracts from the subject themselves. As the owner and lead photographer of Avery Creative Studio, Jordan creates a calm, intentional studio environment focused on comfort, collaboration, and timeless imagery that reflects who his clients truly are.
Become
Collaborator
Collaborators help support 100 Black Voices by connecting people, spaces, and resources to the project. This may include referring participants, introducing community partners, or helping expand the project’s reach through trusted networks. Collaborators are credited as Special Thanks wherever applicable.
Become a
Crew member
Crew members are artists and hands-on contributors who help bring the project to life through production, documentation, and on-site support. This includes assisting with photography, coordination, storytelling, or exhibition preparation depending on the phase of the project. Crew members are credited for their contributions when applicable.
become a
Sponsor
Sponsors are individuals or organizations that contribute financial support, gear, space, or services to help sustain the project. These contributions directly support production, archiving, and public presentation. Sponsors are acknowledged across select project materials and public-facing moments.
Sponsors
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Pass Gallery
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Lawrences
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Cove Studio
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SZNL Art art Gallery.
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