Dr. Ravi Perry: The Politics of Art and Summer Opportunity

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Friday, August 03, 2012

Ravi Perry, GoLocalWorcester MINDSETTER™

A few weeks ago I noticed how the great Worcester Art Museum has free admission during July and August. This summer I also reviewed some of the great work of Arts Worcester, and the Worcester Arts Council.

Each of these organizations is doing an amazing job in what their respective missions promote. However, each could be doing more.

The summer is one of the highest unemployment seasons for young people. And it seems as though little has been planned or organized to use the arts as a vehicle for summer youth employment and city beautification at the same time.

Frankly, I’m thinking about the great, historically successful Young Artists at Work program sponsored by the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo in Ohio and co-sponsored by the city of Toledo (Click here for more information)

This program should be replicated in Worcester. It pays talented area diverse, “at-risk” and other youth to do what they do best – be creative! They have instructors and are paid to produce work that beautifies the city.

Things like gaining permission from owners to paint beautiful murals on privately owned abandoned buildings. Or, painting fire hydrants and bus benches with unique designs. Some even produce canvass, sculpture or some other kind of art for sell at the conclusion of the program to citizens and back to city offices to be on display throughout city owned buildings.

Many cities have developed similar program along the lines of an anti-graffiti program.

Whatever it’s called, these types of programs cost minimal expense, contribute greatly to the city’s beautification projects and help to ensure an employment young workforce in the arts all summer long.

Most importantly, it’s not too late to start a mini August to September run for this year – nor is it too late to start planning for next year.

With support from area arts leaders, this program should be a huge hit for years to come!