On April 24, 2025, the Shirley Bradley LeFlore Foundation (SBLF) and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation kicked off their first collaboration with “THE ART OF CONVERSATION,” a new series presenting discussions and performances by leading figures in literature, theater, dance, and music in front of a live audience. Hosted by Lyah Beth LeFlore-Ituen, a New York Times Bestselling author, producer, director, and Executive Director of SBLF, featured acclaimed poet, professor, and former National Poetry Slam winner, Tara Betts. Set against the striking backdrop of Veronica Ryan’s “Unruly Objects” exhibit, nearly 75 attendees—a lively, diverse, and intergenerational group—gathered for an unforgettable evening of poetry, conversation, and celebration. The event was both inspiring and uplifting, embodying the essence of what the late St. Louis Poet Laureate Emeritus, Shirley Bradley Price LeFlore, stood for during her lifetime.
LeFlore-Ituen established a personal connection with Betts by asking thoughtful questions and digging deeper to reveal meaningful insights, resulting in a captivating interview. In response, Betts resonated with the audience through her answers, skillfully intertwining themes of emotion, resilience, and truth, thus creating a strong link between the past and the present. The impact of Betts’ poetry reading was further elevated by the outstanding drumming of percussionist and multi-instrumentalist David A.N. Jackson, whose rhythms complemented Betts’ spoken words beautifully. LeFlore-Ituen opened and concluded the event with thoughtfully chosen poems from Shirley Bradley Price LeFlore’s extensive collection, creating a tone that was both poignant and powerful.
We were honored to have Pulitzer Executive Director, Cara Starke, in attendance, along with the museum’s Public Programs and Engagement Manager, Tyeler Hood, and her team, that included Vaughn Davis, whose collective support and dedication helped make the night such a success.
The magic of the night was beautifully captured by cinematographer, producer, and director Dana Christian, a longtime creative collaborator of LeFlore-Ituen’s productions, whose camera lens truly bottled the spirit and energy of the evening.
The evening concluded with Betts signing books on the main level, and a lovely reception on the breathtaking mezzanine of the Pulitzer, providing a graceful end to a night filled with impactful words, connections, and a sense of community. New enthusiasts of Shirley’s work, admirers of Tara Betts, and loyal supporters of Shirley Bradley Price LeFlore and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation gathered together, celebrating what seemed to be more than just an event, but the start of a significant and lasting relationship.
“THE ART OF CONVERSATION” marks SBLF’s inaugural ongoing program initiative. It was created during SBLF’s 5th Anniversary celebration and launched during National Poetry Month, highlighting the significance of poetry and new beginnings through SBLF’s collaboration with the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, a cultural and civic asset to the St. Louis community.
