An Interview w/ Chaka Mkali aka I Self Divine of the Rhymesayers

Chaka Mkali aka I Self Divine

Chaka Mkali, also known as I Self Devine is a musician, MC (Rhymesayers Entertainment), community organizer, racial justice trainer, graffiti artist, muralist, program coordinator and director of organizing and community building at Hope Community. His politically-conscious, socially aware stance isn’t to look cool, but is actually reflected in his everyday actions and engagement. I Self uses his passions in the arts, community organizing and music to reach to uplift spirits and sustain movements.  He had the honor of painting the first mural on the current home of Minneapolis’ Intermedia Arts and will continue his community and creative work, for he builds bridges long after the murals have been painted over and the shows have ended.

As Minnesota’s premier multidisciplinary, multicultural arts center, Intermedia Arts builds understanding among people by catalyzing and inspiring artists and audiences to make changes in their lives and communities. Intermedia Arts is the only organization in the region that empowers artists and community leaders to use arts-based approaches to solve community issues. From graffiti art to digital technology to performance art to spoken word, they work from the community up to unearth and enliven new and emerging artists and art forms while challenging and exploring the role of art in our lives. By stimulating civic dialogue and giving voice to the issues and experiences of underrepresented communities locally, nationally and internationally, Intermedia Arts contributes to a stronger, healthier society.

“Intermedia Arts doesn’t tell you what to do. They support you being you.” -Chaka Mkali (I Self Devine)