Blog Post #10

    Chillaxing resonated with me on many different levels. First off, when the young artist Alicia from New Urban Arts drew a young black girl with a bandage on her hand, arms off to her sides, head down, and a quote that stated "do I still have time to grow" I was amazed. The artist was creative in her work and developed a piece that was eye-catching while at the same time posing a very important story and philosophical question with room for interpretation. Also, I found it interesting that this quote came from a Kanye West song as just recently I have started to listen to his music and I have found that his creative expression also poses themes and stories that can be shared amongst a wide range of people. I truly believe that great artwork allows you to delve into the creator's vision while also being able to connect deeper within yourself, both artists Alicia and Kanye do this with there work. 

Another resonation I had within Chillaxing was from the letters that Laura, another youth from New Urban Arts left behind. Specifically, when being interviewed on her notes and when she emphasized her quote "so live goddamit" she really hit home with the idea of wanting to make the most out of an experience you may never have again. I personally can also relate and feel this sense of motivation but at times also pressure to make sure I'm not wasting or ignoring opportunities. Connecting to my current life circumstances my heart truly acks that I no longer have a senior year of college and the in-person experiences I could be missing out on. My younger brother who is also a senior in high school shares a similar mentality. To connect back to Alicia's artwork I feel we had to grow in ways that we didn't expect to have to. I think about my senior year of high school and how pivotal that time was for my growth and preparation for life after high school. Many youth like my brother and his friends are facing this completely new way of living and I hope they are receiving the supports they deserve and focusing on the things they can have control over and enjoy. 

To end off on a better note, my heart and my future goals are truly set on making sure that programs are set in place to support youth and adults. Life can still be lived and even adults can continue to grow and evolve into better versions of themselves, no matter how much time they may feel has gone to less desirable things. There is always the opportunity to learn new things, find new meaning in life, and embrace change. Even though the times we are going through is hard for many, I truly believe a lot of people have found simple pleasures and focus on self-care outside of what school or a job may have provided them with. I hope for stability and security for everyone growing up within a school system and growing outside of it.