Through the artistic process of drama, visual arts, music, movement, and media, students explore their personal and communal choices, painting a "mural" of healthy living for their lives. Inspired to change themselves and their communities, students become activists for peace and unity.

In the Murals program, students explore the issue of violence which includes unique youth development lessons rooted in multiple artistic areas. Local teaching artists use their craft as a tool to explore social issues, creating a safe community for students to share and learn.

Through visual arts, drama, music, dance & media students will:

• Explore their literal and emotional experiences of violence, and envision alternatives.


• Investigate the concepts of cooperation, conflict resolution, and empathy.


• Demonstrate an understanding of emotional expression, cultural sensitivity, and personal identity.

Murals participants are also trained as art activists and share their voice with the community every summer at the MGR Foundation Youth Peace Rally. Using the arts to address issues of violence, students will find new positive ways to express their voice and make it heard in their community.

Murals: Violence Prevention through the Arts is primarily implemented in schools, community centers, and detention centers with middle and high school youth. Interested in bringing Murals: Violence Prevention through the Arts to your location? Contact Meredith Hoppe, Murals Program Director!