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Statement from Ali Mirsky, 5/10/17
For over a decade I have shared my passion for the art of mosaic within many communities and people of all ages. What makes mosaic art intriguing is the materials and the process. One does not need to have a background in the fine arts or even an interest in the arts to take pleasure in the process. Mosaic requires a different set of skills that allows the art form to be more engaging and more forgiving, which is ideal for community art. Whenever I bring together a community to create a large work of art what often ends up happening is that the art becomes secondary. The true magic is found in the process of creating. With young students I witness an inner confidence that was once laking begin to emerge and the art of creativity begins to unfold. With older students, particularly high school age, barriers begin to break down and the mosaic process offers a sense of release or calmness. Mosaic art is often described as therapeutic and I have found it to be very healing for communities that have suffered great loss and trauma. But as an artist the main focus for me is to facilitate a group that is committed to creating a legacy of beautify that will inspire future generations to explore their inner creativity. After all, community art is a gift that is bestowed upon the public and as we all know, the art is in not just found in the creating but also in the giving.
As a professional, I have facilitated and created dozens of community murals all over the world and for me each project holds something unique and sentimental, but this particular mosaic project at Bryant Alternative High School is definitely one that will forever hold dear. I am inspired and excited to work with Rachel Albert, the art teacher as much as I am with each of the students that have worked on this mosaic week after week. There is a great deal of energy and excitement that has transpired from the creation of this mural. The personal and collective pride that has formed around this project is undeniable and the support from the local community and businesses is truly unprecedented. I am astounded how much this mosaic project has impacted the surrounding community and the word of mouth that has echoed through the school. Every day a new student drops by to work on the mural. I feel that this project has given many of the students a sense of purpose, a sense of calm and has aided in forming new friendships. This project is magical> the students, their stories and their struggles are what makes community projects like this one so essential. We need to provide our youth with opportunities to feel valued, to explore and to just have fun and that is all happening each day with the work that is being done on this mosaic and I am truly honored to have been asked to be a part of this incredible journey! Personally I wish that there had been opportunities like this for me when I was in high school and the fact that the Principal and Mrs. Albert are so dedicated to supporting this project is huge and speaks a great deal about their own commitment and dedication to the students and the school. This mosaic is the largest community mosaic I have ever facilitated and the design is both personal and abstract. It's super ambitious but these students are committed and the work is happening fairly quickly. I hope that I will be able to provide future opportunities for these students so that they may continue to work in mosaic and develop their inner creativity.
-ali mirsky
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