Poetry and Art Healing the Soul: A Transformative Project in Modesto City Schools
Modesto, California (April 15, 2024) - In an inspiring collaboration supported by a Heartland grant, local poets and artists are spearheading a groundbreaking initiative titled "Poetry and Art Healing the Soul" in Modesto City Schools. This project, led by esteemed individuals including Vielka Solano, Manuel Murieta, Cesar Barajas, and David Rogers, aims to introduce students to the profound impact of self-expression through poetry, music, and visual art.
Throughout the 2023/24 school year, art-making sessions have been conducted within Modesto City Schools, providing students with a creative outlet to explore their thoughts and emotions. Guided by a team of passionate mentors, students have delved into the realms of poetry writing, drumming, and collaborative mural creation. These artistic endeavors serve as a channel for students to articulate their hopes, dreams, challenges, and traumas.
The project's focus on schools within economically disadvantaged communities, as identified by the California Healthy Place Index, underscores its commitment to addressing societal disparities. Vielka Solano, the Project Director, emphasizes the role of artistic expression in fostering empathetic learning and enhancing mental well-being among participants.
As the culmination of this transformative journey approaches, the participating schools are preparing to showcase the fruits of their labor. The unveiling of the students' poetry and art, including the collective murals inspired by their writings, is scheduled for the month of May at various school locations:
Orville Wright Elementary School: May 2, 3:45pm
Mark Twain and Franklin Elementary Schools: May 14, 4:30pm-6:00pm
Robertson Road Elementary School: May 20, 4:30pm-6:00pm
Bret Harte Elementary School: May 22, 3:00pm-4:30pm
This series of events promises to be a celebration of creativity, resilience, and community spirit. All are invited to witness the transformative power of art and join in honoring the voices of Modesto's youth.
For further information and inquiries, please contact Vielka Solano, Program Director, at (209) 857-0549 or via email at poesiyartecurandoelalma@gmail.com.
Contact:
Vielka Solano
Program Director
Email: poesiyartecurandoelalma@gmail.com
About Stanislaus Arts Council:
Stanislaus Arts Council is dedicated to promoting, supporting, and advocating for artists and creative endeavors in Stanislaus County. Through various initiatives and programs, the council strives to enrich the cultural landscape of the community and provide opportunities for artistic expression and engagement.
ABOUT HEARTLAND CREATIVE CORPS
The Heartland Creative Corps, a collaborative initiative involving Stanislaus Arts Council, Tuolumne County Arts, Merced County Arts Council, and United Way of Merced County, has received a significant grant of $4.2 million from the California Arts Council. This funding aims to support artistic endeavors across Merced, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne counties, addressing critical community issues such as public health, social justice, civic engagement, and environmental conservation. In Stanislaus County alone, over $1.6 million has been allocated to 17 impactful art projects. The Heartland Creative Corps underscores the transformative power of art in shaping resilient communities and fostering positive change.
