By Leah Dobson | Photos:
Oakland’s Chabot Space & Science Center reached out to Kingmakers of Oakland with an exciting invitation: to feature our animated music video “Glisten” at one of their First Friday science events. Glisten is more than just a music video—it’s a powerful celebration of brilliance, self-expression, and identity. Through the art of animation, we tell a story that encourages our Kings to tap into their full potential and, like stars in the sky, let their light truly shine.
We are honored to be on the radar of a space as impactful as Chabot. This marks the second time they’ve showcased Glisten—the first being during one of their Black History Month celebrations—and with each invitation, our gratitude deepens. It’s a powerful reminder that our work continues to resonate beyond the classroom and into spaces of science, innovation, and imagination.
What makes this moment even more powerful is the intersection of art, animation, and science. These aren’t separate worlds—they are deeply interconnected. Whether it’s through patterns, rhythm, or design, creative expression often relies on STEM principles, even if it’s not immediately obvious. Animation, for example, involves math, coding, timing, and physics—all wrapped in creative storytelling.
It’s essential for our Kings to understand that their creative talents are not only valid in artistic spaces but also hold power and relevance in scientific and technological ones. This collaboration is a beautiful reminder that creativity and STEM go hand in hand, and that the boundaries between disciplines are meant to be bridged, not reinforced.
We are deeply grateful to Chabot Space & Science Center for continuing to support and amplify our work. This is just the beginning—we’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible when we merge the worlds of science, education, culture, and creativity.
