Visual Element is a mural training programfor local young people 13 to 18 years old who are down to step up
their art skills and learn new ones.
This program’s focus is to use art and
murals as a weapon to create social change in our
Communities.
We have developed and implemented a curriculum that combines
cultural and political education with art development.
the goal is to empower the youth internally and externally in order to achieve a greater long-lasting impact at a grassroots level.
Although our primary medium is aerosol we are constantly exploringand introduce other mediums, everything from brush painting to silk screening.
We always encourage everyone to seek the mastering ofat least one medium. We believe that we are developing the next generation of culture workers and mastery of a craft is essential if our aim is to reach the masses. An essential part of that development is the passing on of knowledge
from previous generations which is why we emphasize the importance of young people having the chance and time to meet and learn from people like Malaquias Montoya and Emory Douglas in the flesh rather than from a video or book.
In addition to our curriculum we also encourage them to take active roles in
grassroots organizing by actively supporting and educating them on crucial
community issues, such as the ongoing fight against gang injunctions and other
community campaigns. Also, in addition we visit local art school campuses
and museums giving our students a broader perspective on art and culture
besides the one being taught by Euro-centric courses and institutions.
If you're a young person between 13 to 18 years old and live in oakland and
think you can benefit from this program or know someone who might,
our classes are on Wednesdays, 4-7 pm we encourage for students to sign up at the
beginning of the semesters but we make exceptions on a case to case basis.
we are located on 2277 international Blvd. at the EastSide Arts Cultural Center.
when you apply make sure to have copies of your work with you.
our email is visual_element@yahoo.com
