Honors Program - Global Experience
I worked alongside a group of other Honors students to create artwork with the children of Performing Stars of Marin. During the 4-day activity, we painted onto tote bags, created cement stepping stones, and decorated serving trays. I learned how to better interact with young children as well as how to keep them engaged in activities.
Performing Stars is locating in Marin City, a community built upon deeply rooted history. Many people came to the area during World War II to help build ships. After the war, the ship construction zone was demolished and Marin City became the first integrating housing project in the nation.
I completed one semester of service-learning with Performing Stars during my Freshman year. It was wonderful having another chance to interact with the children that I used to help out with. Throughout the 4-day 'art-camp', I worked with a 2nd grader who will be entering his first year of in-person school this coming school year. He had a cheerful personality and was always willing to try out the activities presented to him. It was adorable observing all the cute doodles he created after completing his main task.
We brought the children to the DeYoung Museum in San Francisco to view the creative art pieces, as well as learn about art history.
[Right image]: Dying Gaul by Kehinde Wiley portrays a Black man wearing a hoodie, jeans, and sneakers. The man’s face portrays negative emotions as he glances downward with his left hand gripping onto his leg for support. The sculpture encapsulates details of modern day fashion, as well as emotions expressed through the facial expression and anatomical pose. This sculpture is based on an ancient sculpture of the Dying Gaul, which was created in 1683. Overall, Wiley’s art incorporates representation of people of color within politics of power and race. The use of brightly colored portraits and flowery backgrounds aid in Wiley’s artwork being an artistic revolution.
My favorite project was creating tote bags labeled ‘Dominican This Is Home’. We used a stencil to paint the words onto the front of the tote bag. This quote allowed me to reflect on my time at Dominican thus far. Prior to attending Dominican, I already had a great experience interacting with the admission staff. I’ve found aspects of Dominican that make it home for me. I feel comforted when walking around campus because of its calming flowery environment. I also always feel heard by the staff whenever I present them with an issue. Within the past two years, I’ve quickly been able to make Dominican my new home.