Earlier this year, CityLab from The Atlantic asked its readers "Can Murals Change a Neighborhood?"
 
At Groundswell, we know they can.
 
We know that the process of bringing youth from New York City's most diverse neighborhoods together with professional artists and community-based organizations to create a mural can raise visibility and public awareness of key issues and generate ambassadors for social justice causes.  
 
We know that painting a mural on a busy city block can bring together community members of all ages and backgrounds, as they engage in conversation with Groundswell Youth Artists and lend a hand at public painting days.
 
We also know that murals provide long lasting beautification and stewardship to often-neglected public spaces, spark critical discussions on topics relevant to the community, and inspire youth and community members to create change in their neighborhoods.   

Check out this video to hear Groundswell Lead Artist Yana Dimitrova share how her work with Groundswell has helped shape the canon of socially-engaged public art in New York City. 
 
As a committed friend, I hope you will consider a tax-deductible, year-end gift to help us continue to create positive change in the coming year at www.groundswellmural.org/give.