Musician Kyra Sims and performer Mara Wilson have joined forces to create a unique experience at the Grief Party, a celebration of music, poetry, and self-expression.
The unprecedented times we’re living in have prompted a need for creative outlets and spaces where individuals can express themselves freely. In New York City, the Grief Party hosted on April 7th at Joe’s Pub has brought together a diverse group of artists and performers, including Gastor Almonte, Matt Ray, Concetta Abbate, Iris Explosion, Katie Kuzin, Adam Tendler, Darian Donovan Thomas, Alex Krokus, and Elizabeth Bougerol. In an interview with Bleeding Cool, musician Kyra Sims spoke about the inspiration behind the Grief Party, navigating through her own grief, and adapting to uncertain times.
“The seed of the idea began at a My Brightest Diamond show in Brooklyn last fall. I’d worked with Shara Nova on Illinoise, last year and already loved her and her work, but this show truly blew me away. During her set, she talked about the death of Sinead O’Connor and how that affected her both as a person who loved her, and her work as an artist. I knew that night that I wanted to hear from more artists about their grief, and how it appears in their work. I know so many creators who are constantly working with grief- alongside it, within it, and against it. Even New York City itself is shrouded in a deep grief, from the indelible impact from 9/11, to hurricanes and blackouts, and now the chaos of our current state. And one thing about New Yorkers, when something goes down, we gather and we make noise about it.”
As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that the Grief Party is not just a one-time event, but a reflection of the current state of the world. The struggle for arts administration is indeed a challenge, but Sims has found solace in creating a space for grief and self-expression. She has come to realize that grief is not something to be avoided or minimized, but rather something to be acknowledged and explored.
- Sims has noticed a shift in how she navigates grief within herself and others.
- She no longer feels discomfort or an urge to change the subject when friends or acquaintances bring up the death of a loved one or some other loss.
- Society is not yet at a point where grief is openly discussed, but Sims hopes to change that.
When asked about her favorite artists to collaborate with, Sims had a clear answer. “I have a real soft spot for Kristin Chenoweth. I performed with her at a wedding in Florida in 2021, right after everyone got their first vaccinations. It was my first public performance post-shutdown, and it might have been hers too. Her voice that day was sunlight piercing the darkness we’d all lived in for over a year, and her high notes still ring in my heart.”
Taylor Mac is another artist Sims would love to work with again. The two shared a memorable experience at St. Ann’s Warehouse in 2016, where Sims got to play on the 24-hour History of Popular Music show. This experience has had a lasting impact on Sims’ art making and has inspired her to continue exploring new sounds and styles.
- More Grief Party events are possible, with Sims planning to program creative workshops where audiences can also make art about their grief.
- Sims hopes to continue creating a space for grief and self-expression, even in uncertain times.
In the end, the Grief Party is a testament to the power of music, poetry, and self-expression in bringing people together and providing a much-needed outlet for grief and uncertainty. Sims and Wilson’s collaboration has sparked a new wave of creativity, and their work will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift others in the days to come.
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