We are a unique species…
The urge to express ourselves through art is deep within us, locked into our DNA.
This instinct is primal, yet we have systematically removed avenues for self expression from education (arts, crafts, wood/metal shop) at the very time youth are struggling with their own self identity. Without a positive direction this instinct can find an outlet in graffiti.
$20Billion is the annual price we pay…
If this problem is to be treated with empathy then solutions must be aimed at redirection and culture shift. By mentoring young people in their creative growth process the change is more significant.
Professional artists work with small groups of youth on a project lasting about a week. We teach them how to stretch and gesso their own canvas, meet other working artists, visit galleries and museums to establish a vision of their own waiting place in the future of art. Redirecting them towards making “ART WITHOUT VICIMS”.
Every page on this site is open for comments. You are free to speak your mind. We want to encourage a dialogue.
Big Picture is fiscally sponsored by Tides Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
The Big Picture is a fiscally sponsored project of Tides Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your gift may be tax-deductible pursuant to §170(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. Please visit http://www.tides.org/state-nonprofit-disclosures for additional information.
Click here for the Big Picture Facebook page
Big Picture Arts Program 
Nice site! 😉
Great ideas, great project. Helping people who are attracted to art and experimenting with graffiti vandalism to see new options is very helpful. It is a win win for the participant and the entire community.
Thank you Julius. You are a giant in this field and your support means so much. Your book “Defacing America” is THE definitive work on the graffiti problem.
I am looking to learn much from this program in order to potentially replicate it elsewhere. Harnessing the power of the young mind could prove to shift the balance of acceptable behavior. At least I would hope so. Great Job, Andrew. You never cease to inspire me.