Beyond Walls expands its innovative Classroom to the Streets program, bringing together world-class artists, teachers, and students for an immersive public art education experience in Lynn. Moreover, this groundbreaking initiative introduces fellowships for local teens, creating seven large-scale murals while developing curriculum for 17,000 students across the city.
A Revolutionary Approach to Lynn Public Art Education
Beyond Walls launched Classroom to the Streets (CTTS) in 2021. Subsequently, the program has evolved into a model for interdisciplinary arts education. This summer marks a significant expansion with the introduction of Student Fellows.
Furthermore, the initiative pairs 10 rising high school seniors with 11 educators and six internationally renowned artists, who hail from Italy, Spain, Argentina, the United States, and California. Together, they’ll create murals that celebrate Lynn’s diverse cultural communities.
How Student Fellows Shape the Future of Arts Education
For the first time, high school juniors can apply to become Student Fellows. Additionally, these students work alongside professional artists for six weeks. They gain hands-on experience in mural creation and curriculum development.
Moreover, participating students explore potential careers in fine arts, education, or art education. They develop critical thinking skills through real-world artistic collaboration. Consequently, they become active contributors to their city’s cultural landscape.
Teacher Fellows Drive Lynn Public Art Education Forward
Teacher Fellows receive professional development credits for their participation. Furthermore, they collaborate directly with world-class artists to create dynamic lesson plans. These educators bring fresh perspectives back to their classrooms.
Subsequently, the curriculum they develop reaches students from kindergarten through grade 12. The program serves both Lynn Public Schools and St. Mary’s, a private parochial school, thereby creating a unified arts education experience across different school systems.
Seven New Murals Transform Downtown Lynn
The 2025 program will produce seven large-scale murals across three locations. Specifically, four murals will grace 85 Munroe Street. Two additional pieces will enhance the 50 Silsbee Street property. Finally, one mural will beautify 31 Exchange Street.
Moreover, these public artworks serve as outdoor classrooms. In the fall, teachers will organize tours for students in grades K-12. Consequently, thousands of young learners will have the opportunity to experience art in their neighborhoods.
Building Community Through Creative Expression
“We hope that by connecting teachers and students with working artists, highlighting Lynn’s distinctive public art offerings, and crafting new learning tools, Classroom to the Streets will influence and inspire students of every age and background,” says Al Wilson, Beyond Walls’ Founder and Executive Director.
Additionally, the program reflects Lynn’s diverse cultural heritage. It addresses specific student learning outcomes while fostering community pride, thereby creating connections between classroom learning and real-world artistic expression.
Lynn Public Art Education Creates Statewide Model
Beyond Walls plans to expand CTTS to other cities through an open application process. Furthermore, the program already draws interest from schools across Massachusetts. Program Manager Lisa McCarthy emphasizes the initiative’s unique impact.
“This initiative gives young people a real voice in shaping the public art around them while building essential life skills along the way,” McCarthy explains. Additionally, she notes that students work in settings that are both creative and collaborative.
Join the Celebration of Arts and Learning
Mural installations will take place from July 28 to August 8, 2025. Subsequently, a community celebration on Saturday, August 9 marks the program’s culmination. This event coincides with the Lynn Arts & Culture Festival.
Furthermore, the celebration showcases completed murals and highlights student achievements. Community members can meet the artists and educators involved, creating opportunities for ongoing engagement with Lynn’s public art education.
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Beyond Walls | Public Art & Placemaking Agency
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Beyond Walls is a non-profit placemaking agency that uses a creative lens to address community needs. We are a diverse group that believes cities best thrive when they are full of art and have engaged stakeholders and active spaces. Our work revolves around our mission to activate spaces to strengthen communities. How do we do this? We introduce public art
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