Community-based Art Practice

“It is more about the process than the product.”

While the Art Force 5 can proudly cite dozens of beautiful art builds, the process of engaging a community and connecting its members is the ultimate goal.

We utilize the C.R.A.F.T. model as illustrated in the Beginners Guide to Community Based Art.

Contact: Each community partner has a unique need and circumstance. We strive to spend time understanding our shared goals, the community’s needs, and any other additional partners needed. This may include licensed mental health providers for trauma-responsive art.

Research: Beyond simply knowing our contacts, we strive to understand the history, opposition, economics, power dynamics, any relevant laws or restriction, and the scale of our work. Our Atlanta Police mosaics and mini-doc are an example of our capabilities to conduct thorough research - video here or search “NFL360 Black and Blue”

Action: The attention is most often placed on the actual creation of “something,” which may be a mural, mosaic, art exhibit, video, where a high level of engagement exists. The emphasis is not on WHAT is made but the HOW we constructed something.

Feedback: Impact must be provable, with intended goals measured in conversations and surveys. It is also critical to consider new approaches.

Teaching: What have we learned from this experience and how can we sustain the momentum through others. By setting an example, we plant the seeds for continued teaching and growth.

Media Inquiries & Involvement: We respect and value the role of storytellers within these communities. As community-based artist, we strive to serve communities and not speak for them. We kindly ask media professionals to observe our work, participate in our process and then ask the community members if they would be willing to share their experiences.