Ms. Samson's Blog
Arts and Technology Academy

“Building a Better, More Just and Equitable World”

The Friendly Area Neighbors Equity Action Team, in partnership with Lane Arts Council, Arts & Technology Academy and the Dr. Edwin Coleman, Jr. Community Center invited middle school students who attend ATA, live in the Friendly nighborhood, or attend Boys & Girls Club to submit design ideas for a mural that was painted in September 2020.

The mural is the third work of art painted on the exterior of the community center that Boys & Girls Club of Emerald Valley call home. The murals celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Edwin Coleman, Jr. Dr. Coleman was a University of Oregon professor, musician, civil rights activist, writer, and community and campus organizer. These murals not only represent Dr. Coleman’s great work through his life, but also the legacy he left for all of us to carry forward: building a better, more just and equitable world.

Click this link to see a video of Charmaine Coleman speaking about Dr. Coleman’s life and legacy: .

All student submissions were provided to muralist and teaching artist Jessilyn Brinkerhoff, the artist who painted the mural found on the south side of the community center. She utilized the themes, ideas, and imagery submitted by students to develop a collaborative design. You may view Jessilyn’s other work by clicking this link: J.Brinkerhoff Murals

Stay tuned for information about the mural dedication and celebration.