Teaching Model
Tia will teach a group of students how to design and paint a mural with community input by working with her on a real community mural (client provides the wall/mural opportunity). She will teach her community mural model from start to finish, from collaborative design, community paint days to painting the finishing touches.
This will be a great experience for students interested in drawing or painting and community-building. They will gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and learning a trade. Tia will help them develop their self-esteem, communication and collaboration skills every step of the way. To facilitate the process, talking circles will be used for listening and sharing. It's ideal if there can be an application and interview process with the artist through the partnering organization, and even better if it can be a paid internship for youth. Group size is limited. Adaptations can be made if necessary.
The video and photos of past projects show this teaching model in partnership with Milwaukee Community Connections through their youth program.
The Training Process
"Your art expands as you expand".
Having an open mind is key to creativity and collaboration, and sharing one's own ideas with others. Throughout the program Tia will share her philosophy and values, guiding students in developing and practicing these skills. Talking circles will create a supportive space for sharing and listening.
Students will get a firsthand experience by watching film of her past collaborative art efforts, reflecting on how people in other communities have been impacted by them. We'll try creative exercises and reflection, challenging ourselves to expand our perspective on what art and being an artist can be.
Painting With Harmony
There will be a series of community painting days for people to 'paint-by-numbers' style by filling in areas of solid color. After the community is invited to paint (whether a school group, neighborhood or larger community) Tia will teach students how to finish the mural by adding depth with blending and colors.