Artist in Residency

A student artist of color connected with David Ruhlman and developed a curriculum to use, with his craft, when working with kids, particularly kids of color to learn how to use art as a teaching tool. Both artist also was able to expand their personal network and both are currently employed in a school working with kids. Both artist have also been connected with other local decision makers, art venues to ply their craft locally. Youth were exposed to the art of storytelling through rap, poetry and spoken word. Youth engaged in many activities where the importance of listening and focus were taught and demonstrated. Adult volunteers were engaged with the youth and artists telling their stories and participating in art activities, therefore building community. Families used art to communicate with youth about some important community issues like academics, social skill development and behavior in the classroom. As a result of this project we were able to include youth from Talahi in our mural project at Promise Neighborhood. Adult volunteers also have decided to use the storytelling to talk about trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences in an upcoming community forum.