2024 has been a whirlwind—a mixed bag of creative challenges and triumphs that stretched me in ways I didn't think possible. Looking back, I'm proud of the milestones I've reached, even in the face of struggles.
One of my biggest accomplishments this year was curating the Tides of Change, Waves of Hope art show endorsed by UNESCO at the Fulton Center, which was immediately followed by the Art to Save the Planet exhibition at the Federal Reserve building. This project was a massive undertaking and a testament to the power of art as a tool for global change.
Another major achievement was completing my children's book, Little Red & Vandal Wolf. I wrote and illustrated this labor of love, which features 19 street artists' tags and is set to launch in early 2025. To celebrate, I'll host a book launch in NYC with signings and, hopefully, an accompanying art show that brings together all the artists who contributed to the book. Events should continue throughout the year.
Academically, I found myself back in school. I graduated with a 4.0 from OU University, earning my master's degree in art and technology. Diving into gaming and animation via After Effects and mastering 3D modeling with Maya were highlights of my studies, and I'm excited to apply these skills in new ways in 2025.
Another milestone I'm incredibly proud of was launching my nonprofit, Art-Tech Rise. We're harnessing the power of art and technology to support the UN's 17 Sustainable Goals, starting with hackathons for change. While this year was just the beginning, I'm thrilled about our first official fundraiser kicking off in 2025. It will feature a gaming demo created during our pilot hackathon, inspired by the anglerfish sculpture I collaborated on with artist Matty Austin. This piece, exhibited in the Art to Save the Planet, was the creative spark for this initiative.
Looking Ahead to 2025
2025 already feels packed with possibilities. Acting-wise, 2024 was quiet, but I'm determined to change that. One of my top priorities is bringing The Maurine & Maurice Show, a mob comedy I wrote during COVID, to life with a live reading. I believe it has the potential to become a platform where I and other talented actors can truly shine.
I'm also looking forward to launching The Big Cheese Theory, a follow-up to Little Red. This project will combine NFT art, animation, and gaming into an ambitious (and ongoing) creative journey. While it's still in the early stages, I'm ready to share it with the world.
A Resolution for the New Year
One of my goals for 2025 is to connect more with all of you—through blogging, vlogging, and sharing updates on my creative endeavors. It's new territory for me, but I'm having fun so far!
If you're a casting director, producer, or collaborator looking for a fresh voice, please consider me for your upcoming projects. I'll also send special invites for the Maurine & Maurice show and the Little Red book launch, so stay tuned.
Thank you for supporting me on this journey. I can't wait to see what 2025 has in store. In the meantime, enjoy some of the highlights from 2024 below, and don't forget to follow me on Instagram at @listentoizzychurch and visit izzychurch.com to stay updated.
Here's to leveling up in 2025!
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