“Art is anything that makes you proud to be human.

—Ras Baraka, Mayor of Newark, NJ.

Murals That Matter: A Cirrculum

The mural is both an intricate artwork and a creative work of design. It has emerged as one of the most important and prominent tools of the twenty-first century in the realm of visual expression. Murals not only provide significant aesthetic value to the building in which they are displayed, but they also enhance the overall character of the surrounding neighborhood. This revised curriculum takes a closer look at murals as a unique kind of communal design tool, making references to a variety of relevant artists and their impactful works. Major subjects addressed by murals often include social justice and feminism, among other themes. Owing to their enormous size, along with the fantastical use of vibrant color and imaginative form, they have a remarkable ability to attract attention from a considerable distance, prompting curious onlookers to approach and examine the artwork more closely, fostering a deeper connection with the community.