Artivism

Artivism is the intersection of art and activism.

This program empowers teens to curate and create visual and performance productions consisting of multi-media art forms such as acrylic, charcoal, photography, videography and spoken word to advance social justice issues.

ACTIVATING ADVOCACY

Youth grapple with issues of racial and social justice every day. Our newest program gives high school students dynamic opportunities to address these issues head-on and advocate for change. Local professional artists guide the students as they express their thoughts through activist art, such as original artwork, poetry, and performance pieces. Projects have included a large-scale movable mural on fence posts, an original multi-disciplinary theater piece performed at Moody Performance Hall, and a deeply moving storytelling and photography exhibition.

STUDENT SHOWCASES

Three student-led showcases are hosted annually. The projects focus on personal story-telling from the lens of each student and cross multiple media types, including painting, spoken word, sculpture, photography, videography and digital arts.

IMPACT OF ARTIVISM

36 Number of youth served annually139
1139 Number of student learning hours annually
61.5% of youth said that “As a result of this program, I take creative risks with my own personal expression”
68% of youth said that “As a result of this program, I confidently take on challenges”
84% of youth said that “This program has helped me build confidence”
83% of youth said that “Because of this program, I can better express my ideas and feelings”

How to support artivism

We would love for you to support this important work designed for students to express through art activism. Donations can be made safely and securely online, and you can designate your gift specifically for this program. Make a gift to Artivism.

Artivism is partially funded through generous support from the Michael Saldana Templin Memorial Fund.

INSPIRED BY MICHAEL SALDAÑA

Michael Saldaña Templin was a Dallas native and had a deep passion for music and film. He simply loved all things creative. Highly inquisitive about many things, Michael used his creative talent and interests to compose music and produce films.

In celebration of Michael’s life his mother and father, Sarah Saldaña and Don Templin, have established a Memorial Fund in his name. The Michael Saldaña Templin Memorial Fund will support other talented children in the pursuit of their passions.

Your gracious gift in memory of Michael’s life can be made in the following ways:

Check payable to Big Thought, 1409 S. Lamar St., Suite 1015, Dallas, Texas 75215

Donate online. Select the “Michael Saldana Templin Memorial Fund” from the dropdown list of designations.
Contact us at 469.621.8977 or by [email protected]

 

A note will be sent to Sarah and Don letting them know of your gift in Michael’s memory.