Fourteen youth at the Juvenile Justice Intervention Center participated in a 6-week program to learn about mural-making. Guided by our Lead Artist/Lead Arts Educator, Journey Allen, and our YAM Program coordinator, Gabby Tolliver, students took a journey of self-discovery through circle conversations and the art of Jean-Michel Basquiat. To further support students' emotional needs as they navigated the creative process, participants engaged in healing art sessions facilitated by Whole Village Art Therapy.

This full-circle process supported students in thinking deeply about what they envisioned both for their lives and the overall project design. The culmination of these experiences led to the development of, "Our Beautiful Dream for New Orleans," a mural located in the visitation room that embodies students' visualization for a better future for themselves and the city of New Orleans. The vibrant mural inspires hope through colorful images and positive messages.

The project was supported by Baptist Community Ministries and the City of New Orleans Percent for Art Program.