Kenya Hall and Kafari performed together as part of the 'Jazz at the Lion's Club' music series on Peak's Island in September 2020, their first public performance since the covid-19 March shut-down.

Michael O. is a singer, songwriter, performer and producer who harnesses his personal and cultural influences to create a powerful sound. Through music, he aims to build connections that break down ethnic, geographic, and cultural boundaries through his exploration of himself, his heritage, and of the world around him. Michael says it is a huge honor to be named a Maine Artist Fellowship recipient. More than the financial incentive, Michael says this award validated his mission to the arts and reassures himself that he is moving in the right direction. He plans to use the award to elevate his work, and hopefully, he says that elevation can help inspire Mainers in this new world we live in.