Changing Colours youth mural program: Empowering youth through art

A City of Burnaby program has empowered young artists in Burnaby to paint four new murals, adding colour and vibrancy to community spaces while building important connections with their peers.

The Changing Colours Art of Empowerment youth mural program offers a unique opportunity for participants to explore the power of art in storytelling and community building. Over a 6-8 week period, young artists received guidance and education on using art to express themselves positively and develop meaningful social connections. 

“It’s incredible to see young people showcase their talent and creativity for the benefit of our community, and they should be extremely proud of what they have created,” said Mayor Mike Hurley. “Working on a project like this is also a fantastic way to build valuable leadership skills and connections which will serve them well for the rest of their lives.” 

Participants in the program have painted four mural installations, two at Moscrop Secondary School, one at the Summit Youth Centre, and the most recent mural at South Central Youth Centre. The murals have become part of the community landscape and are vibrant reflections of the youths’ experiences.

"We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and dedication of the youth involved in this program," said Doug Hatch, South Central Youth Centre Supervisor. "It's a wonderful opportunity for them to contribute to their community and develop their artistic skills."

This program is funded through the Public Safety Canada Gang and Gun grant funding. 

The mural program is not only a platform for artistic expression but also a vital component of the broader Youth and Family First Strategy. By fostering positive social connections and providing educational resources, the program aims to promote youth community engagement.