Art In This Present Moment
Broderick Poole
Artist Broderick Poole showcases his artistry by shining light on prominent Black leaders through jacket patchwork.
The patchwork features images of African American activists and leaders in the community. Their achievements will be taught to a small class. Positive community personalities that appeal to youth like Maya Moore, Stacey Abrams and Colin Kaepernick and other patchwork that will symbolize Black greatness will be included in the design. The jacket will have style and at the same time educate with the patches.
About the Artist
Broderick Poole is a Twin Cities-based visual artist who specializes in creating multiple forms of custom handcrafted art. He's been creating artwork for over twenty-five years and for the past several years has been teaching the youth in the neighborhood he grew up in.
In his work, Broderick merges his acrylic painting and drawing skills with his graphic design degree. Learning screen printing and sewing before the age of 18 introduced another element, extending the range of his talent in his fashion line, Vintage Poole Boy where he creates artwork that educates and inspires the culture.
About the Organization
Broderick's Custom Heritage/Truce Center Jacket was created in partnership with In Black Ink. In Black Ink provides publishing arts opportunities to African heritage communities that have been historically disenfranchised, and continue to experience exclusion. IBI’s programming mitigates economic, educational and cultural inequities.
“ Growing up, [art] was a big way for me to express myself. I guess I was real quiet, I didn’t talk as much as a kid, so it was a big way for me to get my thoughts and stuff out there.”
Broderick Poole
Art In This Present Moment
This project is part of Art in This Present Moment, an initiative of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, with funding from the McKnight Foundation. We provided grants to three Minnesota-based nonprofit organizations to fund work by six BIPOC artists who are changing and challenging dominant narratives through their craft.
More Stories
We’ve Moved
On January 21, 2025, the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation relocated to Osborn370, a dynamic hub of innovation and diversity in downtown Saint Paul.
Read about our move
From Lab to Stage: Kenji Shoemaker's Unique Path in Theater
There’s a unique art and science to prop and stage design. These skills helped former scientist Kenji Shoemaker switch careers, showcasing his talents behind the curtains.
See the project
Open Arms of Minnesota: Delivering Hope, One Meal at a Time
Learn how one organization is changing lives with medically tailored meals.
Watch the video
2024: A Year of Partnership and Innovation
In 2024 we worked closely with various community partners such as nonprofit organizations, fundholders and fellow foundations to continue envisioning an equitable, just and vibrant Minnesota where all communities and people thrive.
View Our 2024 Year In Review
Foundations Announce $10.3 Million in 2024 Second-Round Community Grants
Grants will provide crucial funding resources to community organizations making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families across the East Metro and Greater Minnesota.
Read the announcement
Sara Ochs: Bridging Theater and Music in a New Artistic Journey
Sara Ochs is a multidisciplinary theater artist and songwriter. With support from Art in This Present Moment, Sara will be exploring her talents as a songwriter, writing new music and potentially a one woman play.
See the project
Staging Community: Building a Supportive Ecosystem for Local Theater
Learn how you can go from audience to advocate by supporting organizations like Exposed Brick Theatre.
Read More
Mother and Son Duet Bridges the Gap Between Old and New
Mothers often have close relationships with their sons, but in the case of Maria Biagetti Cortez and Vladimir Garrido-Biagetti, that bond is deeply immersed in their culture and music.
See the project