Local artist combines art and politics with Artists for Harris-Walz event

Artist Morgan Overton has been involved in political organizing since former President Barack Obama’s 2012 campaign. On Saturday, with the event “Artists for Harris-Walz,” Overton will combine two of her passions — art and politics. The organizing event, taking place in East Liberty, promises an evening full of the arts.

Overton wasn’t old enough to vote in 2008, but that’s when she had her political awakening.

“I saw how many different coalitions of people organized for Barack Obama, especially young people,” Overton said.

Now, as vice chair of the Allegheny County Democratic Committee, she is feeling the same type of energy and urgency that galvanized support for Obama “happening tenfold today for Kamala Harris,” she said.

Since Harris became the Democratic Party’s front-runner in July, there has been a surge of organizing energy, particularly led by Black women, Overton said.

“From there, you just see so many communities come out for Kamala Harris, Black men for Harris, white dudes for Harris, progressives for Harris, comics for Harris,” she said.

Overton wanted to keep the energy going. As an artist, she put together “Artists for Harris-Walz,” but what sets this event apart, she said, is its focus on those who aren’t typically thought of in the political ecosystem.

“The role artists have had in igniting civic participation and understanding our issues throughout history is crucial,” Overton said.

Overton is working with the Harris-Walz for Pennsylvania Campaign for the event, aligning with their mission of community outreach.

“We have a creative and community-focused strategy. For example, our campaign has hosted Dogs for Democracy events, volunteer appreciation dinners, ice cream socials, and games,” according to a statement from the Harris-Walz for Pennsylvania Campaign.

The arts-centered event to rally support for Harris has garnered significant backing, Overton said. It will take place on Sept. 14, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the East Liberty Kamala Harris Office, 6024 Broad St. Guests can expect an evening of artistic celebration. In partnership with Artists Image Resource, known for screen printing and printmaking services, the event will feature a station where guests can create Harris window signs or print on a blank white T-shirt. There will also be paint and DIY stations for guests to make their own art, and participants will have the chance to respond to the question, “What does freedom mean to you?”

A handful of Pittsburgh artists will perform, addressing issues within democracy, such as women’s health and Black lives, Overton said. Food will be provided, and all are welcome.

“I think events like this are important because art can be a catalyst for change. On the surface, art is fun and it can be utilized as an introduction to advocacy,” said Chardae Jones, former mayor of Braddock, who will be sharing her poetry.

“Art has such a pivotal role in our culture and society,” Overton said. “This event is about centering the arts as a platform for people to express their excitement for this election and creatively share what they want their future in this democracy to look like.”