Founder and Artistic Director for Brownbody
MeetDeneaneRichburg
Deneane uses movement and the physical form to push the boundaries of creative expression to disrupt the narratives around blackness.
“ I'm very much interested in creating spaces and experiences where we are able to understand who we are beyond the categories and the ideologies that are typically assigned and described to Black communities.”
Deneane Richburg
Storytelling Through Movement
Founded in 2007, Brownbody combines figure skating, modern dance and theater to tell stories of African-American culture and history.
The donation-based learn to skate program centers blackness in the curriculum, format and structure of its lessons. Youth and adults connect in community and movement.
Snapshots
Embodied Training
Brownbody offers embodied training workshops designed to acknowledge and address the trauma of racial oppression. Through reflection-based dialogue, participants learn how to disempower rooted narratives of the Black community.
“ Let's celebrate the beauty that is a part of our culture, our history and our lineage.”
Deneane Richburg
More Stories
Juana Garcia: Celebrating Cultural Traditions Through Dance
Dance can often be about getting lost in the music, but it also can be a part of cultural traditions. In the case of Juana (Jaynie) Garcia it's been a way for her to connect her Mexican heritage, introducing it to others in the city of Willmar.
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Rondo's Heartbeat: The Enduring Impact of Hallie Q. Brown Community Center
Learn how this community center has served as a safe haven for generations in Saint Paul.
Watch the video
Drumming for Unity: A Vision for Community Change
Created by John Salgado Maldonado, Cimarrón Batucada uses the art of drumming to address social justice issues and promote cross-cultural community engagement.
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Announcing Our New Strategic Plan
The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation launches our strategic plan for the next five years. Watch our video to see our aspiration, purpose and key strategies.
Watch the video
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.
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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