Tam Makers, a community makerspace in Mill Valley, is creating an Art Float for Social Change to inspire more people to participate in democracy. The goal of the project is to reach out to youth and people of color through art, music, and technology. The float will be presented on Earth Day, Memorial Day, and Fourth of July parades in Marin and throughout California this fall to encourage people to vote in the next election.
The float is unique in that it 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 invite people to speak up and vote, and attendees can pitch their ideas for social change on the podium, or have them scroll on the news ticker.
The community art project is created by a team of students and makers, led by Fabrice Florin and Geo Monley, co-founders of Tam Makers. The project is made possible through the support of Tam High School and countless volunteers, as well as art, civic, and educational partners.
Building of the project started in March and April 2018 and took place on Thursday evenings from 4 to 9 pm or Saturday mornings from 10 am to 1 pm. Anyone interested in volunteering can email the organization at float@tammakers.org. To learn more about the Art Float for Social Change, visit www.tammakers.org/art-float.