Community Art

Community is a term that meant little to me until I became a mother. Not much unique about that. Awareness at becoming a community member is rich and rewarding. Children are often the impetus. The excitement arises though when art is added to the mix.

For centuries, art was part of an everyday persons living. Every handcrafted pot, story or song was inscribed with art and soul. Now we commit art to museums and galleries, recognizing and celebrating a select few. Our personal experiences and abilities appear trivialized in comparison. Items we use daily, including songs and entertainment are manufactured. At this point it's even trite to ask, "Have we lost soul with this transgression?"

What happens when we bring community art back to our lives? The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program says it well, "When we create art with each other and for each other, the force of life can triumph." 

Eager assistants, Owen and Liam

A few weeks ago I delegated part of a community art project. The  response I got was warm and genuine, "I'm looking forward to doing this!" Formerly a manager of a facilities team, I don't recall receiving that kind of enthusiasm as design tasks were administered. Maybe it's not fair to compare the two scenarios. There are too many variables distinguishing them. Rather than rack my brain in analysis though, I will accept and appreciate that I am part of a more triumphant life force now.