Groundswell’s Summer Leadership Institute (SLI) program, an emblem of youth empowerment and artistic expression, proudly presents three new murals crafted by its talented participants. This summer, 55 young artists came together under the SLI banner, channeling their creativity and passion into vibrant murals that echo the voices of New York City. The new murals shine brightly in Cypress Hills, Bushwick, and Sunset Park, celebrating community and culture within these three neighborhoods.
Making His'tory:
El Paso Del Tiempo
Lead Artist: Raul Ayala
Assistant Artist: Carlos Mateu
Mural Site Assistant: Quincy Washington
Where: Food Bazaar at Bushwick
Year: 2023
“El Paso Del Tiempo” – Gracing the walls of Food Bazaar in Bushwick on Wyckoff Avenue, this mural is a testament to the transformative potential of youth of color in today’s society. Drawing inspiration from Afrofuturistic aesthetics and the Sankofa concept, it delves into the past to propose a brighter future. The mural is a visual journey, celebrating the culture, resilience, and commitment to challenging systemic oppression. It’s a multilingual masterpiece, amplifying the voices of neighbors and celebrating the vibrant energy of Bushwick and Brooklyn’s diverse communities. The mural’s intricate design includes symbols like the egg, representing hope and constant evolution, and caution tapes, sparking conversation about gentrification and discriminatory practices. By diving into the past and embracing cultural heritage, “El Paso Del Tiempo” tells the story where communities cohabit in harmony, united by shared dreams and collective aspirations.
Dedications
Youth Artists: Tunde Kwantu, Asad Rivera, Dyami Adams, Del Antonio, Paco Franco, Fidel Franco, Justin Clarke, Ivan Zhao, Tristan Leone, Gloria “Juno” Lam, Jose Hernandez – Montenegro, Isabelle Duperval, Giu Jing Jiang
Major financial support for Groundswell’s 2023 Summer Leadership Institute (SLI) is provided by: Altman Foundation, Brooklyn Community Foundation, Charles Lawrence Keith & Clara Miller Foundation, Common Sense Fund, Donald A. Pels Charitable Trust, Ford Foundation, Milton & Sally Avery Arts Foundation, The New York Community Trust Mosaic Network & Fund, Pinkerton Foundation, Sagalyn Family Foundation, Sills Family Foundation, in addition to numerous individuals.
SLI is made possible in part by public funds administered by: National Endowment for the Arts, New York State Council on the Arts, New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Council Member Shahana Hanif and Council Member Oswald Feliz.
Special thanks to Food Bazaar
Major Corporate Sponsorship Provided By:
The Brooklyn Nets
Your continued support helps us to continue our work.
Visit The Other Two Murals
Murals for Change (M4C):
Together Under The Sun © 2023
Lead Artists: Julia Cocuzza
Assistant Artist: Lina Montoya
Mural Site Assistant: Mahnoor Sheik
Voices Her’d: The Sky Isn’t The Limit © 2023
Lead Artists: Kristy McCarthy
Assistant Artist: Eva Mariscal
Mural Site Assistant: Melanie Garcia