Second Thought Project
2026
#Publication
#Book Design
#Artist Book
multiple papers with multiple dimensions, staples, Chicago screws, riso print, digital print
View Project Website
2026
#Publication
#Book Design
#Artist Book
multiple papers with multiple dimensions, staples, Chicago screws, riso print, digital print
View Project Website
Second Thought Project is a personal, ongoing journal for learning social justice from multiple intersectional perspectives inspired by the training program for teacher candidates. It includes personal notes, writings, thoughts, toolkits, and reflections across multiple papers and dimensions. The outcome includes a physical copy and a website that provides the public with free access.
Wen-Li had invited visual artists and educators to share their stories and work, emphasizing social justice in the processes of making, healing, and building awareness and resilience. She hosted an event at Black Garnet Bookstore during the summer of 2026. The guest speakers included Ellen Mueller and Maria Reyes.
Ellen Mueller (she/her) has exhibited nationally and internationally as an interdisciplinary artist examining how capitalist systems affect everyday life, with a particular focus on environmental issues. She received her MFA from the University of South Florida and is currently the Director of Programs at Arts Midwest.
Maria Reyes (she/her) is a Racial Equity and Instructional Coach with Minneapolis Public Schools and an instructor in the University of Minnesota's teacher preparation graduate programs. Her work focuses on equity-based pedagogy, preparing future educators to foster inclusive, culturally responsive, and equitable learning environments.
Wen-Li Chen is a fiscal year 2025 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature, and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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Wen-Li had invited visual artists and educators to share their stories and work, emphasizing social justice in the processes of making, healing, and building awareness and resilience. She hosted an event at Black Garnet Bookstore during the summer of 2026. The guest speakers included Ellen Mueller and Maria Reyes.
Ellen Mueller (she/her) has exhibited nationally and internationally as an interdisciplinary artist examining how capitalist systems affect everyday life, with a particular focus on environmental issues. She received her MFA from the University of South Florida and is currently the Director of Programs at Arts Midwest.
Maria Reyes (she/her) is a Racial Equity and Instructional Coach with Minneapolis Public Schools and an instructor in the University of Minnesota's teacher preparation graduate programs. Her work focuses on equity-based pedagogy, preparing future educators to foster inclusive, culturally responsive, and equitable learning environments.
Wen-Li Chen is a fiscal year 2025 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature, and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Second Project