Johnnay joined The LP team as our new Development Coordinator in May 2022. Get to know more about her!
In what neighborhood do you live?
Crown Heights!
How did you first become connected to The LP, or hear about The LP?
The first time I heard about the LP was through the work of MuseumHue. LP popped up in a newsletter and I immediately was drawn to their clear dedication of empowering communities through art. I was an instant fan!
So, what attracted you to The LP? How does working here relate to your professional goals?
What attracted me to The LP was their commitment to using as art as a tool for social change and empowering communities to be their own agents of change. I want to build a career that centers advocating for art accessibility and I think the LP is a great place to continue to learn and grow.
Can you tell us about an artist or project that has inspired you?
I have a few but I would definitely have to say the work of Lorraine O’Grady. Her series “Art is…” is mesmerizing and highlights the importance of community, celebration, and how art is all around us. Her work inspires me to be rebellious and reminds me to always remember that simply being alive and joyful is art.
Where do you do your laundry?
In my basement!
In your opinion, why does art matter?
Art matters because it allows us to connect, dream, and be inspired. All three of those are key to being alive.
What LP value do you most relate to and why?
I think in the last few months it has been to practice abundance. I love the idea that we have everything we need and that we can create a future for us, by us. I am drawn to the idea that collectively we have the skills and knowledge that is needed to have a world that centers interconnectedness and joy. It’s our responsibility to ensure people feel empowered and that they are valued in our communities.
Proudly hailing from Minnesota, Johnnay Leenay is the Development Coordinator at The Laundromat Project. Before joining the LP, she worked in philanthropy at Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice and in Development at BRIC Arts and Media supporting the Membership team for BRIC Celebrate! Brooklyn and BRIC House. She holds a B.A. in Communications and Justice and Peace Studies and is passionate about the intersections of art, queerness, and social justice. In her free time, she enjoys exploring New York City, marveling at art anywhere she can find it, and giggling.