ABOUT
History
Initiated by singer-songwriter Camila Vick, The.BlkRoom was created as a haven for artists within her circle to foster their creativity. A close friend of Camila's, Senite Barih, who was heavily involved in performing and recording at the time, sought a space for her own creative endeavors and became a frequent patron. Recognizing the widespread need among her network for a venue to rehearse, record, produce, and collaborate, Camila devised the Membership Program. Her vision involved individuals paying a modest monthly fee for unlimited access to the space, extending support beyond her immediate connections to assist a broader community of artists. Upon sharing her concept with Senite, she embraced it wholeheartedly. Following positive attention in the media, they opened membership applications, welcoming up to 15 members on a monthly rotation basis. While acknowledging the significance of physical space for artists, Camila also observed a lack of opportunities for DJs and artists in Chicago to showcase their talents. Thus, she introduced "Live at The.BlkRoom'' DJ sets, inviting DJs to apply for the chance to exhibit their work. Through a partnership with the nonprofit organization Elastic Arts, Camila and Senite broadened their collaborative network beyond The.BlkRoom's confines, and continued to do so in collaborating with AFRORACK and others to create additional opportunities for artists to have access to platforms, education, and showcasing.
Since the emergence of The.BlkRoom, through strong partnership, Camila and Senite diligently strive to enhance its success by drawing upon their shared passion and firsthand experiences as up-and-coming artists and creatives in the city. Their collaborative efforts aim to narrow the divide between opportunity and achievement for Chicago's artistic community. This began with the establishment of a safe and nurturing space, and has since evolved to include the curation of workshops, events, performances, and various other avenues for artists and creatives of all stripes to thrive and succeed in their respective mediums.
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Founder & CEOBorn and raised on the West Side of Chicago, Camila Vick is a multifaceted talent, excelling as a singer, songwriter, performer, and jazz musician. Beginning her journey as a vocal student, she swiftly emerged as a gifted artist and creative force in the city's vibrant scene. Alongside her band, Camila has graced stages across Chicago, showcasing her prowess as both a vocalist and performer while maintaining a steady output of original music. With her expanding expertise in marketing, promotion, and business development, Camila Vick remains committed to pioneering innovative approaches to effecting positive change through The.BlkRoom, and she hopes to connect other BIPOC spaces, organizations, and opportunities to her community.
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Co-Founder & CFOHailing from Uptown, Chicago, Senite Barih is a versatile artist, encompassing roles as a singer, rapper, performer, and musician. Her journey began as a music student at The People’s Music School, eventually transitioning into a full-time artist propelled by the growing success of her recorded projects across multiple media platforms. Remaining active in Chicago's music scene, Senite leverages her expertise in marketing, curation, and nonprofit work to contribute to the advancement of The.BlkRoom while continuing to find ways to support her community and represent her Eritrean-American heritage.
If you are interested in being a part of our team, or hope to be involved as a volunteer for one of our special events, please contact admin@theblkroom.org and send us a resume or any question you may have about being a part of the The.BlkRoom!