Join us for an inspiring edition of the Spark Series — a public listen-and-learn webinar celebrating the continued impact of Ignite Rural alumni who are growing their creative practices and emerging as leaders in their communities.
In each Spark webinar, we sit down with one Ignite Rural artist to hear reflections on their journey since completing the program, explore how their creative work has evolved, and learn what’s next on the horizon. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a live Q&A conversation.
This session features Leah Xiuzhen Rathe — a multimedia artist, storyteller, and founder of Leah XR Creative. Adopted from China and raised in Montana and Minnesota, Leah brings a deeply personal and community-centered approach to her work through videography, photography, and graphic design. Her projects explore themes including social justice, gender equality, and the criminal justice system, all grounded in creating with meaning and intention.
Come hear how Leah has cultivated creative connections across communities, built her own media business, and continues to use art as a tool for impact, leadership, and storytelling. Together, we’ll explore how investing in civic artists sparks community building, creative leadership, and meaningful growth.
Free and open to the public.
Ignite Rural Spark Webinar w/ special guest Leah Rather
Thursday, June 11, 2026 | 5 – 6 PM CT
Online via Zoom