Not every story needs words. The Creative Representation Empire (TCRE) brings a hands-on art activity to the stage, giving young readers a chance to build their own story through color and imagination. It’s a perfect midday reset for families at the festival – no experience necessary, just a willingness to imagine. Educators, come see creative expression in action; families, come make something to take home. A joyful, low-key way to keep the momentum going all afternoon.
Color, Craft, Create with The Creative Representation Empire
2:45 pm
Presented by Baltimore Read Aloud
Naomi Winston
Naomi Winston is a native of Thibodaux, LA and a current resident in Baltimore, MD. Winston received her history degree at Xavier University of Louisiana in 2021. After publishing her first book at 17 and struggling to find a publisher that would allow her to tell her authentic story, she started a publishing company, Revolutionary Hearts Industries, her freshman year at Xavier to elevate the stories of Black women.In 2019, she started creating affirmation coloring books after seeing her 7-year-old cousin experience colorism for the first time.
Now, over five years later, these coloring books, now known as The Creative Representation Empire, have become a nationally recognized, culturally representative, educational resource company. With a growing collection of 12+ coloring books, national media attention, including a feature on CBS Mornings’ “Changing the Game” segment, and a community of advocates, Winston continues to uplift community storytelling and emphasize her university’s mission of “creating a more just and humane society.”
Winston continues to create coloring books alongside community partners, supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs, and mentoring youth on the importance of entrepreneurship, community journalism, and finding their purpose. Winston believes that there is something everyone can do to make the world a better place and she hopes her work can empower people to find their something!
