Tam Makers, a community maker space in Mill Valley, CA, is spearheading the creation of an Art Float for Social Change. The goal of this community art project is to inspire more people to participate in democracy. The parade float will be created for Earth Day, Memorial Day, and Fourth of July parades in Marin, as well as parades throughout California in the fall, with the aim of encouraging people to vote in the next election.
One of the fundamental aspects of this project is to make sure it reaches out to youth and people of color. To achieve this, the Art Float for Social Change will incorporate art, music, and technology. The float celebrates mother earth with a carousel of waving hands pulled by a giant feathered serpent. Performers will tell stories of hope on a stage decorated with scenes of a better world. Large signs will encourage people to speak up and vote. Individuals can pitch their ideas for social change on the podium or have them scroll on the news ticker.
The community-led project is being created by a team of students and makers, led by Fabrice Florin and Geo Monley, co-founders of Tam Makers. The organization is grateful to Tam High School and other volunteers for their support and contribution towards presenting the finished float to the community.
Creation of this project will take place in March and April of 2018 on Thursday evenings from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteering is encouraged and those interested can email the team at float@tammakers.org. Learn more about the Art Float for Social Change on the Tam Makers website at www.tammakers.org/art-float/.