Brushstrokes & Peace is a free 4-week outdoor art program taught directly by me for East Cleveland youth. Held every Saturday for 2 hours at the local park behind the East Cleveland Public Library, this program gives local kids a creative, safe space to process emotions, learn artistic techniques, and express a powerful message against gun violence.
​Over the course of 4 weeks, I will lead hands-on art instruction where youth explore acrylic canvas painting, custom wearable art (tote bags and peace hoodies), and mixed-media poster design. Each 2-hour session combines step-by-step art instruction, creative freedom, healthy snacks, and open conversation where participants can share the personal stories and meaning behind their artwork.
​Why is your project awesome?
​This project brings direct, hands-on mentorship directly to youth in East Cleveland at a accessible community hub: the park right behind the library. Rather than taking a formal or distant approach to violence prevention, I am personally teaching these sessions to empower local youth to turn their feelings into vibrant art that promotes peace.
​By using an outdoor park space on Saturday afternoons—a key weekend hours window—the program creates a visible, positive presence in the neighborhood. It gives local kids constructive skills, boosts their confidence, and provides them with tangible artistic projects they can take home or display to show their stance against gun violence in our community.The $1,000 micro-grant will cover all art instruction materials, outdoor equipment, and refreshments for up to 25 kids across the 4-week program: