The Big Mixer

The Big Mixer 2025: Advocacy Through ArtPresented by Texas Black LensIn collaboration with the George Washington Carver Museum Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PMLocation: George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural & Genealogy CenterAdmission: Free with registration The Big Mixer is Texas Black Lens’ annual networking event created to unite filmmakers, artists, and community members across disciplines. Hosted in collaboration with the George Washington Carver Museum, this gathering celebrates creativity, collaboration, and connection within Austin’s Black creative community. Whether you are a filmmaker, writer, actor, or storyteller, The Big Mixer offers a welcoming space to network, exchange ideas, and explore how art can be used as a powerful tool for advocacy, truth, and change. This year’s featured panel, Advocacy Through Art, explores the intersection of art and activism through the lens of artists across the diaspora. The conversation will examine how creatives navigate underrepresentation, systemic barriers, and the responsibility of storytelling in shaping social and political change. Moderator:J. Manzo – Filmmaker and Educator Panelists:Dr. Rikki Byrd – Writer, Curator, and Professor of Visual Culture, UT AustinFitzgerald Junior – Writer, Filmmaker, and Multidisciplinary ArtistJared Royal – Visual Artist and Film DirectorKelly Daniela Norris – FilmmakerChanning Smith – Filmmaker and Producer [hidden] PM – Doors open and networking reception7:15 PM – Panel discussion: Advocacy Through Art8:00 PM – Audience Q&A and continued networking The Big Mixer offers a unique opportunity to connect with Austin’s creative professionals, engage in meaningful discussions about art and activism, and build lasting relationships within the film and arts community. Join us for an evening of conversation and community! More Info below.