Community Art Enhances Rural Costa Rica School: A Desafio Initiative
Desafio, in collaboration with various organizations and compassionate individuals, has joined forces to uplift Cerro Alegre, a local elementary school. This initiative involves providing dance outfits for the school’s dance group, painting its walls, constructing playground equipment, and furnishing desks and supplies.
Notably, Desafio Adventure Company, in partnership with a local travel planning company, has sponsored a mural by Selina Lee, a talented Canadian artist.
This interactive mural serves not only to beautify the school but also to engage the children in the artistic process. Selina Lee, the artist behind the project, shares her inspiration:
“Every aspect of this project was extraordinary – from designing the mural to interacting with the staff and involving the children. I chose to depict a tree because, like a school, it is continuously growing and evolving. The leaves sprout, mature, fall, and provide nutrients for new growth,” explains Lee.
“This symbolism resonates with the experience at Cerro Alegre, a school showered with love that circulates within the school and community. During my painting sessions, the kids gathered around, asking questions about my artwork. This not only provided English conversation practice but also encouraged the exploration of color mixing. Their support and encouragement were invaluable,” she adds.
Lee’s decision to involve the children in the painting process aligns with her love for participatory artwork. It allows each young artist to contribute their unique touch, adding a personalized meaning to the overall piece. Moreover, many Costa Rican elementary schools lack funding for art classes, making this a novel experience for the students.
“I started by conducting an art class for the kindergarten students, incorporating activities to stimulate creativity, including dancing and drawing. This energized them, and when it came time to paint, they approached it with excitement and freedom.”
Each child painted a leaf-shaped piece of wood, which was then affixed to the tree’s branches. The children took pride in their creations.
The mural has transformed into more than a decorative piece; it has become a tangible connection for the students, leaving a lasting impression. Lee hopes it ignites a creative spark within the students, fostering an ongoing appreciation for artistic expression, potentially using paint as their medium.
