The creative impulse is so powerful that those who possess it are possessed by
it. While inspirations for the results this energy produces are infinite, the impetus for Endangered is specific. The music of artist Tomás Doncker, the lyrics of Pulitzer Prize winning poet Yusef Komunyakaa, and the videography of William Murray are direct, original responses to the art of Floyd D. Tunson, specifically his body of work that addresses the historical conundrum of young Black men in America.

Endangered is a timely, but timeless journey of intellect and soul, an immersion into a virtual multi-sensory arena, with music shedding light on the art and the art inviting interpretations of the music.

Perhaps the best way to understand Endangered is to imagine walking into the museum (or gallery space) where you hear the music (performed live or digitally) as you look at the artwork (“real,” digitally projected, or a combination). Because of the way the project is promoted, visitors would know that the music was composed specifically for the art, so they would pay attention to the lyrics and view the details of the art works, as well as experience the totality in the blend of the art forms.

Doncker’s ongoing collaboration with Komunyakaa spans the better part of two decades. Their critically acclaimed albums Big Apple Blues, the Black Magnolia Project, the 10th Anniversary release of their first album project together The Mercy Suite (as well as various songs from other albums – most recently Wherever You Go) have been touted as groundbreaking instant classics.