Experimental Station is proud to partner with Yusef Agency and its founder, a multidisciplinary artist Carlon Rosales, to present a soulful, multidisciplinary evening exploring artists’ perspectives on greatness—how it is defined, challenged, and reimagined through creative practice and lived experience.
The program weaves together performance, music, and conversation, featuring:
A poetry performance organized by Kavonyaa
A live band set by Sangram
A DJ jam session by Meechie Mixed It
The evening concludes with a discussion panel that invites artists and audience members alike to reflect together and engage with the central question of the night.
📅 Thursday, January 22
⏰ 7–10pm
📍 Experimental Station
Refreshments will be provided.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS:
Yusef / Carlon Rosales
Yusef Agency is a creative-led production agency advancing contemporary art and culture through immersive live events and cinematic storytelling.
Founded by multidisciplinary artist Carlon Rosales, the agency specializes in cinematography, music composition, and visual design—producing transparent, community-driven experiences and visually striking campaigns rooted in originality.
KaVona Moore
KaVona Moore is a faith-based poet, essayist, and multifaceted creative whose work is driven by her love of language and spirituality. Her writing reflects the lived experiences of young adults navigating adulthood, illuminating often-overlooked inner and outer worlds. Through her work, she seeks to remind others of the peace and blessings found in God amid life’s chaos.
Nahla GEM (Alva Krystal Wilson)
Nahla GEM, also known as Alva Krystal Wilson, is a Black and Afro-Latin rapper, singer, songwriter, poet, and activist from Gary, Indiana. Her work draws from reflections on Blackness, spirituality, philosophy, and the subconscious, blending abstract, imagery-rich lyricism with candid introspection. She has performed and received recognition from organizations including the National Endowment for the Arts, The Urban League, and multiple arts and activist institutions.
Ireon Roach
Ireon Roach is a Chicago-native actor, poet, and playwright anchored in the belief that diasporic Black folks are among the foremost architects of language as a tool for everyday liberation. Her work aims to amplify the voices we hear yet often forget to call poets. She was last seen at Goodman Theatre, and her TV and film credits include The 4400 (CW) and Candyman (2021). Her writing has appeared in Hoochie Feminist Magazine and Charcoal Magazine, with plays featured at Jackalope Theatre and Reground Theatre Collective.
Sangram
Sangram is a band bringing together versatile musicians from across the Chicago area. Combining multiple styles and drawing on contrasting influences, Sangram seeks to invite listeners into a space of transcendence and reflection. Rhythm, harmony, and soul move in partnership with the band, extending their arms to you, the listener.
About Ground Rules
Ground Rules is Experimental Station’s year-long series of social gatherings designed to bring neighbors together through conversations, collaboration, and play. Each event creates a warm, welcoming space where community members can slow down, connect, and engage with one another in meaningful ways.
From film nights and community bread bakes to interactive workshops and game nights, Ground Rules encourages civility, curiosity, and joyful participation. The series invites people of all ages to share experiences that strengthen understanding, build trust, and nurture a more connected South Side community.
Ground Rules is supported by the Field Foundation of Illinois.