Ep 64: From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections

Summary of the episode:

Today’s conversation centers on the critical distinction between mutual aid and charity, as articulated by our guest, Eric von Haynes. Eric emphasizes that mutual aid is rooted in reciprocity and community connection, contrasting it with the more transactional nature of charity. He shares insights from his extensive work in mutual aid initiatives, including the Love Fridge project, which provides community fridges stocked with food and resources, emphasizing the importance of anonymity and equality in these efforts. Throughout the discussion, Eric reflects on his artistic journey, particularly his passion for printmaking as a means of disseminating ideas and fostering community dialogue. With a focus on the values of horizontality and support, this episode encourages listeners to think critically about how we share resources and uplift one another in our communities.

Takeaways:

• Mutual aid emphasizes reciprocity and community support, distinguishing it from mere charity.
• The Love Fridge initiative in Chicago showcases how community fridges can foster mutual aid.
• Eric advocates for slow media, valuing thoughtful engagement over rapid consumption.
• Art practices, like printmaking, provide a platform for voices that challenge societal norms.

Chapters:

• 00:01 - Introduction to Nosy AF Conversations

• 03:10 - Understanding Mutual Aid and Reciprocity

• 12:04 - The Concept of Mutual Aid

• 17:46 - Community Fridges and Mutual Aid

• 26:42 - Community Engagement and Food Rescue

• 36:52 - Understanding Mutual Aid vs Charity

• 40:45 - Values and Practices in Community Engagement

• 46:25 - The Importance of Print in Art and Society

• 55:13 - The Philosophy of Anarchy and Community

• 01:01:40 - The Importance of Slow Media

• 01:06:45 - The Legacy of Robert Blackburn

Eric Von Haynes operates under the imprint Flatlands Press and co-founded Love Fridge Chicago, a mutual aid initiative supporting community fridges. He is a visiting senior instructor of graphic design at the UIC School of Design and currently serves as the president of the Chicago Printers Guild.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Eric Von Haynes: Drawn Through Restraint

Dean Spade Mutual Aid Book

*link to this book is with an affiliate link*

Community Centered Design

Love Fridge

Btw Happy Anniversary, Love Fridge! 💕🎊

Food Not Bombs

Chicagoland Food Sovereignty Coalition

Getting Grown Collective

Narcan

Robert Blackburn

Gabe Hoare

Connect with Eric

Instagram: @Flatlands_press

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Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Email: [email protected]

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Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam