Local author hosts a celebration of literature, film, and culture.
New Orleans, LA – April 2, 2025 — The rich tradition of Black storytelling will take center stage at the 3rd Annual BLK INK Book Festival and the inaugural BLK INK Short Film Premiere on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at City Park’s Pavilion of the Two Sisters and Lath House (1 Victory Avenue, New Orleans). These highly anticipated events offer an immersive celebration of Black literature, film, culture, and creativity, bringing together readers, writers, filmmakers, and cultural enthusiasts for an unforgettable day.
The BLK INK Book Festival is free with registration, while the BLK INK Short Film Premiere requires a $20 Pass. To register as a guest, reserve a pass, or secure an author/artist exhibit booth, visit blkink2025.eventbrite.com.
“We are thrilled to host the events in New Orleans and collaborate with the city’s Black creators in literature and film to showcase visionary artistry and a passion for cultural storytelling,” said Michelle Jackson, founder and organizer of BLK INK. “As a local resident and author, I am always excited to see fellow writers and now filmmakers come together to share their incredible work.”
New to the festival this year, the BLK INK Short Film Premiere will feature five powerful short films by Black filmmakers, followed by a high-energy panel discussion hosted by Gian Smith, Founder of the New Orleans Black Film Festival. The event promises a unique and engaging exploration of Black stories through film.
Before the Short Film Premiere, the On The Set Youth Film Camp, founded by David Tucker, the first person in the State of Alabama to write, direct, produce, and sell a film for national distribution, will host auditions from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at City Park’s Lath House for its inaugural camp in New Orleans. This unique one-week summer camp offers aspiring filmmakers ages 12-18 the opportunity to learn the entire filmmaking process, from on-location shooting to live-action set experiences. The camp concludes with the production of a short film featuring a real Hollywood actor. For more information and to register, visit onthesetcamp.com.
This year’s sponsors and partners include Community Book Center, PR Solutions LLC of Louisiana, LifeSkills Foundation, Direct2Author.com, West Elm Store New Orleans, Baroness on Baronne, and The Seasonal Pages.
Festival Highlights: A Weekend of Culture and Creativity
BLK INK Martinis & Manuscripts Happy Hour – Friday, May 2 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM
- Location: Baroness on Baronne (338 Baronne Street, New Orleans)
- Enjoy an evening of book talk, music, and community with fellow authors and book lovers. Registration required: blkink2025.eventbrite.com
BLK INK Book Festival – Saturday, May 3 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Location: City Park’s Pavilion of the Two Sisters, 1 Victory Avenue, New Orleans
- Admissions: Free
Experience:
Authors & Books: Meet a diverse lineup of authors and discover powerful voices in literature.
Reading in the Garden: Experience captivating literary readings set against the scenic backdrop of the Botanical Gardens.
Live Music & Entertainment: Groove to the beats of a live DJ throughout the day.
Book Giveaways & Prizes: Take home exciting books and win fantastic prizes.
On The Set Youth Film Camp Auditions – Saturday, May 3 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: City Park’s Lath House, Botanical Garden
- Check-in: Pavilion of the Two Sisters, 1 Victory Avenue, New Orleans
- Auditions: No fee, registration required. Only for youth ages 12-18. Register here: onthesetcamp.com.
BLK INK Short Film Premiere & Filmmaker Panel Discussion – Saturday, May 3 | 1:00 – 3:00 PM
- Location: City Park’s Lath House, Botanical Garden
- Check-in: Pavilion of the Two Sisters, 1 Victory Avenue, New Orleans
- Admission: $20 (includes a film screening and panel discussion). Space is limited. College students attend free. Use code FilmStudent with an .edu email address. Register here: blkink2025.eventbrite.com
Featured Films & Filmmakers:
Below the Veil by Jami’l Carter – A poetic exploration of trauma, growth, and connection.
Migration by Angela Tucker – Bold and authentic stories of underrepresented communities.
Black Maybe by Jonathan Isaac Jackson – A reflection on Black identity and the African Diaspora.
Love Letters by Niglmoro “Niki” Okuk – An intimate look at love, justice, and resilience in a documentary about a graffiti artist in LA.
The Women Wanted to Dance by Addie Citchens – A soulful journey through culture and expression.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and exhibiting, visit www.blackwritersworkspace.com/blk-ink-book-festival or email Michelle Jackson at events@prsolutionsllc.org.
Contact:
Michelle Jackson
Email: events@prsolutionsllc.org
Website: www.blackwritersworkspace.com
PRSBizNews 