Mission

A pedagogical process which creates explorative learning opportunities through the creation of black and white collaborative visual CONVERSATIONS

The fundamental purpose of all EM workshops is to explore Shared Creativity, and the building of Strong Communities through Effective Communication.  

When beginning any work within the community, the initial response of participants is often superficial, as most tend to respond immediately to ideas that are obvious, easy, and ‘pretty’.  This is not in itself bad, but it does lead to an important question; how do we look for deeper layers of meaning?

The required skill for these workshops is to listen carefully, while creating a safe, inclusive space for participants, in order to actively engage the hidden histories, politics, and the underlying tensions of the place and the people who live there.  This is about digging; exploring lived experience rather than imposed ideas, while suggesting real — and ideally simple — solutions to complex problems. This begins with the stories of participants, that when revealed and shared, can stimulate a tremendous amount of community vitality. 

Participants are given the opportunity to work collaboratively on large-scale black and white productions, guided by artists who take on a mentorship role. Our hands-on approach allows artists to empower, inspire, and pass-on knowledge to all those involved. In turn, participants develop a sense of ownership, pride, and ambition for their own personal practice.

By opening a door to the artistic community, EMFTM creates an avenue for participants to speak directly with emerging and professional artists, bringing contemporary art to schools and into the community.

Since En Masse For The Masses’ inception in late 2011, this project has brought together thousands of artists, students, and communities. Through public events and our work in schools, both private and public, we’ve created countless new connections between individuals of all ages and the local arts community. The project has given people the opportunity to express themselves using paint, markers, or chalk and ignites a sense of play and openness in all those involved.

En Masse For The Masses fosters communication, mentorship and the sharing of techniques and ideas. It de-mystifies the world of “the artist” and allows everyone involved the opportunity to share, learn, and teach. It creates a healthy dialog that often allows individuals to feel part of a community.

We are dedicated to social betterment through the use of learning opportunities and a pedagogical processes that engage artists and non-artists alike through a collaborative black & white visual dialogue which promotes and instills collective ownership and pride within communities.