Tivoli Murals Project hosting fundraiser for phase two

The organisers of the Tivoli Murals Project are currently in fundraising mode as they prepare to start the second phase of an ambitious venture which will see them painting 30,000 square feet of wall space in the community.

The motto for the project, which focuses on the use of art for therapy, is 'healing thoughts through arts'.

"We have been trying to do this for two and a half years," Oniel Coke, one of the project leaders told THE WEEKEND STAR. "We have measured the entire community space, but when we look at the cost that comes with this, it is not encouraging. Last summer, we started by me reaching out to brethren and they responded positively."

He had high praises for the Art Evolution Mural Group, headed by Life Child, which embraced the challenge and has created something of beauty within the inner-city community, whose name, Coke pointed out, "is definitely one of the most recognisable".

"Art Evolution is now like family... it comprises people who are living in the community as well as those from outside the community. Without Art Evolution, we couldn't even envision this," Coke stressed.

Phase one was completed last October and artists painted 5,000 square feet of the community. Coke is overjoyed by the impact on the residents and outsiders who are loving the look and feel. He was proud to share that the project gained the attention of Pan-Afrikanist Dr Umar Ifatunde, who recently enjoyed a tour of the community at the end of which "he gave a riveting speech, echoing the wisdom of the Honourable Marcus Garvey". Marlon Spencer and Micah Tomlinson are assisting Coke in leading out this initiative.

"This summer, we will paint an additional 30,000 square feet. The team is currently fundraising to help bring the expansion to life. Next week, from July 10-15, we are inviting the public to Bumps Park, for a six-day fundraising event. There will be live mural painting, art and food for sale, along with other festivities. Our team needs support to actualise the second phase of the project," Coke said

He added, "On different days we are hoping to have different types of engagement. We are inviting people to come down and experience what it is all about. It's about us creating a relationship with artists, the corporate world and those who are in a position to make such a project come to life."