A new nonprofit in Pittsburgh is working to improve the city’s image among its young people. This summer the Sprout Fund launched a community murals project, the inaugural effort of its Public Art Program, to create a culturally diverse and vibrant visual landscape in Greater Pittsburgh. The program encourages community dialogue about public art while creating opportunities for emerging and professional local artists to explore their talent in the public realm.
Of the eight murals created this summer, two feature contributions from young people. At nearly 2,000 square feet, the Hill District mural
The Sprout Fund
Pittsburgh, PA
Public Art Program
Half a dozen children and teens were among the 20 volunteers assisting artist Laurie Marshall on the McKees Rocks mural. Not part of any organized youth program, the young would-be muralists—including eight-year-old Krystal, who helped paint her own image on the wall (see mural detail)—stopped by the site out of curiosity, then stayed from a desire to contribute.
Launched in August 2001 by The Tides Center (PA), The Sprout Fund is a non-profit organization that supports the innovative ideas of young people through modest grants for community projects in the Pittsburgh region. For more information, go to www.sproutfund.org.
