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Photos by Yvonne Kemp
As part of SHARP Literacy’s Summer Learning/Art on the Move program, the organization partnered with several Milwaukee-area schools and community learning centers to create a large-scale mural , “Our True Colors,” which was unveiled in Milwaukee’s historic Bronzeville on Wednesday, September 30, 2020. Community artist Vedale Hill (top photo, right) led the remote-learning, STEAM-based art project, which involved the participation of approximately 50 elementary school students from NeuLife Gwen T. Jackson, NeuLife Brown Street Academy, Neighborhood House, and Messmer Saint Mary.
Students used math, ratios and data science to paint mural pieces representing themselves. By creating characters painted with their skin tone and favorite color, students embraced what makes each of them unique. Within the completed 8’ x 16’ piece, students see not only what makes them special as individuals, but what makes their neighborhood and the city of Milwaukee a diverse community. The mural will inspire students to think about who they are as opposed to what they are. Pictured are some of the students who took part in the project along with artist Vedale Hill; and SHARP Literacy President and CEO Lynda Kohler (inset).
