On June 13, La House in Lawrence, MA, came alive with creativity and community spirit as the compARTimos team showcased the incredible work of local youth. Funded by the Creative County Initiative Partnership Grant, this event highlighted the power of art in sharing stories and fostering unity.
The event began at 4 PM with a Community Artmaking Activity at LA House (Phoenix Academy). Participants gathered behind 15 Union St. to witness the artistic talents of students from Lawrence High School, LA House/Phoenix Academy, and Elevated Thought. Attendees joined in, creating art that reflected the diverse stories of Lawrence’s youth.
The excitement continued with a Scavenger Hunt along the Compartimos Trail. Starting from LA House and winding through Campagnone Common, Immigrant Place, and ending at El Taller, participants followed a path of creativity and discovery. Each location highlighted different aspects of the youth’s journey and their artistic expressions, allowing the community to appreciate Lawrence’s vibrant cultural landscape.
The evening culminated at El Taller, located at 275 Essex St., with an Open Mic/Story Share segment starting at 5:30 PM. Young artists shared their stories and experiences, captivating the audience with their authenticity and passion. This session underscored the importance of giving youth a platform to express themselves.
The event concluded with a Free Celebration Meal, bringing everyone together to enjoy food and reflect on the day’s activities. It was a moment of camaraderie, where participants, families, and community members bonded over shared experiences.
La House, the event’s host, is a collective of creatives, healers, and cultural workers dedicated to holding safe spaces for individuals to reclaim their creativity. Their mission is to help people tap into their creative spark as a path toward healing, transformation, and growth.
The compARTimos celebration was more than an event; it was a movement toward greater visibility and appreciation for the stories of new immigrant youth in Lawrence. As the community reflects on this initiative, there’s renewed hope and determination to continue supporting and uplifting the next generation’s voices.
Stay connected with La House and the Creative County Initiative for updates on future events and opportunities to engage with the vibrant art and stories of Lawrence’s youth. Together, we can continue to celebrate and nurture the creativity that makes our community unique.
