The story behind the Art That Moves People, an initiative by Aldine ISD in collaboration with Houston METRO, has been included in the May/June 2024 edition of Texas School Business.
Art That Moves People engages students in designing bus shelter artworks that embody their school pride and lay the foundation for a future rich in artistic endeavors. This contest prompts students to think critically about how their artwork can impact their community, creating a public product that ties their work to the campus. The winning designs, displayed in local METRO bus shelters, become a permanent fixture in their community, serving as a source of pride for the school and, most importantly, fostering a supportive environment that nurtures future artistic talents, inspiring and exciting the community.
The contest involves students designing bus shelter artwork that is installed on their local METRO bus shelter, focusing on the diverse audience that will engage with their art daily.
The competition is based on a rubric. The project’s primary goal is to portray the school culture, showcasing core values and strengths to the community.
A key component of METRO’s and AISD’s initiative, The Art That Moves People Art Design Contest, is to bring public art to stakeholders and is a testament to the Aldine community’s rich diversity. This community-driven initiative encourages students to create art installations that authentically reflect their cultural backgrounds and personal experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.
“The contest validates students’ artistic abilities, fosters an arts community, and provides a platform for students to express their cultural identity, making them feel empowered and respected,” said Kaileigh Newman, Aldine ISD director of visual arts. “The contest also promotes inclusivity and diversity, allowing students to contribute to the community’s mosaic of stories.”
Click HERE to Read the full article by Newman and Bradley S. Kaplan published in Texas School Business (Pages 24-24) and see examples of the students’ designs.
