On April 5, 2013 I had the pleasure of assisting Michelle Barnes at Turner-Lockhart Elementary School as part of the Community Artists Collectives’ Art Education program. She has been doing this outreach program for about 6 months.
I had an awesome time. Early in I noticed a 5 year old student who was not so willing to participate so I decided to pull up a chair. This young man was getting frustrated with his work and continued to put his work down. “I suck. I can’t draw. I’m so bad at this.” He berating himself was bringing me down because I felt helpless in how to make him feel better about himself. Just when I began getting anxious it was the young man who created a needed bridge. He asked, “Do you know how to draw a face?” Ultimately he created something which made him proud. And even though assignments were not meant to leave the classroom, after much persistence he convinced Ms. Barnes to let him take his home. Before being dismissed he looked up at me and said, “Ms. Breaux will you be here for the rest of the year?”
Sure I may have made an impression in his life, but he will never know how he instantly changed a challenging week around for me. I will never forget it.
The Community Artists Collective has supported my growth as a visual artist over the past few years, ever since my first contact with the community there. I have participated in several exhibitions as a visual artist, and I have also visited many times for art shows, craft shows, and entrepreneur programs.
Since 2003, I have been involved with The Community Artists' Collective contributing as an editor to their news publication ASHE. Michelle Barnes, Exec. Director, is a wonderful mentor, instructor, and inspirational person to work with. She epitomizes the spirit of community development through her selfless guidance and positive, graceful demeanor. As a result, The Collective's programs, including the Summer Enrichment program and the regular art exhibitions, continue to thrive and draw significant attendance. I am especially grateful to Michelle and The Collective for co-sponsoring a writer's workshop with me, which helped create more awareness to the gallery space. The Collective supports the arts through various enrichment programs such as their quilt circle meetings, on-going participation in festivals and shows, and workshops that teach the business side of the craft. It continues to stay true to its mission of celebrating African American and women artists by providing a resource that gives back one-hundred fold.
I have had a long relationship with the Community Artists' Collective. I have never been disappointed in its programming, service or its many exhibitions. I find the Executive Director, Michelle a wonderful and inspiring leader, artist advocate and community and art education visionary. Great care is taken in exhibitions, installations and related events. Emerging artists find guidance and opportunity for growth. Openings are well attended and loaded with fun and networking opportunities. Artists and visitors alike seem to value their experiences at the Community Artists' Collective.
I have loved the work by the Community Artists Collective for over a decade. Their workshops on photography were a lifeline for me when I needed to be in a creative environment. I learned techniques that I use today in my photography and cherish the photograph that I was able to exhibit. The Collective does great work with you and adults and provide a needed outlet for artists of color. Thank you collective.
I have learned more about art and the creative process by being involved with the Community Artists' Collective. The organization is exerting a positive influence in our community by beautifying the city, building self esteem among all and reaching out to many underserved people. It's been a marvelous learning experience for me.