Tam Makers, a community makerspace in Mill Valley, California is creating an Art Float for Social Change to inspire more people, specifically youth and people of color, to participate in democracy. The parade float’s art, music, and technology will be presented at Earth Day, Memorial Day and Fourth of July parades in Marin and throughout California this fall. The aim is to encourage people to vote in the next election.
The unique art float celebrates mother earth with a carousel of waving hands that is pulled by a giant feathered serpent. Performers will tell stories of hope on a stage decorated with scenes of a better world. Participants can pitch their ideas for social change on a podium or have them scroll on the news ticker.
The community art project is led by Fabrice Florin and Geo Monley, co-founders of Tam Makers, and a group of 60+ students and makers. Tam High School is hosting the project and several volunteers and art, civic and educational partners are supporting the project. The float is being built from February to April 2018 on Thursday evenings from 4 to 9pm or Saturday mornings from 10am to 1pm. Anyone interested in volunteering can email float@tammakers.org.
The Art Float for Social Change reflects a growing trend of community-based groups using art as a medium for addressing important social issues. Art provides an accessible way to engage with complex issues and to reach diverse communities that may not have been previously involved in civic engagement. Through art, people are invited to express themselves and consider various perspectives, and learn about the issues that affect their local and global communities.
Art has a unique ability to connect with people at a deep emotional level and to engage them in meaningful conversations about important issues that affect them. Art can break down barriers and challenge social norms, giving people the opportunity to discover new ways of thinking about themselves and the world around them.
Through the Art Float for Social Change, Tam Makers and their partners are creating a space where people can engage in these conversations and feel empowered to take action on issues that matter to them. The float is designed to resemble a carnival or festive atmosphere, which allows people to let their guard down and have fun, while also learning about important social issues.
The use of technology, such as the news ticker, enables people to share their ideas and perspectives in a public space, which is essential for building community and fostering dialogues. The float will reach out to diverse communities, including youth and people of color, who may have previously felt excluded from civic engagement. By encouraging people to vote in the next election, the float is inspiring a sense of civic duty and participation, and highlighting the importance of community engagement.
The process of creating the Art Float for Social Change is a community-building initiative that brings together people from different backgrounds and skill sets. Through cooperation and the sharing of ideas, participants are able to learn new skills, build relationships, and create something that reflects their collective vision. By inviting people to participate in the creative process, the float is fostering a sense of ownership and investment in the project, and encouraging people to take pride in their community.
The Art Float for Social Change is a tangible example of how art can be used to inspire community engagement and social change. It is an innovative approach to civic engagement that is accessible to all people, irrespective of their socio-economic status or political affiliation. Art can bring people together and inspire them to take action on issues that matter to them. By tapping into the power of art, Tam Makers and their partners are inspiring a movement of socially conscious citizens who are committed to building a better future for all people.
Posted by fabola on 2018-04-12 10:55:14
