Sunnyside High School students converge on Downtown to learn about the growing art scene

Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Sunnyside High School students converge on Downtown to learn about the growing art scene
Bold art and bright images fill the walls of buildings in Downtown Fresno's Mural District.

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Bold art and bright images fill the walls of buildings in Downtown Fresno's Mural District.

"In the last 10 years we've seen a boom in art, but now, because it's grown so much, the city is maturing and we want to share that with the students," said Artist Mauro Carrera.

Carrera, a local muralist, shared his passion and how art has evolved in Fresno. Students from Sunnyside High School got to hear from local artists as they went on a field trip in the Mural District. Sunnyside students did a photo mural project last year and this year they're looking to be a part of Downtown.

"We're looking for new real estate down in the Mural District. This year we're going to take our project, hopefully, into our community that embraces murals so the kids are getting an education on all things mural."

Students walked to three sites-- the Iron Bird Lofts, Broadway Lofts, and the M Street Art Complex to see how pictures were portrayed.

"A lot of the artwork I have not seen before because I don't usually come Downtown. And it's kind of like wow, I didn't know that was in my city," said student Brianna Heng.

Artists and educators hope these images will strike a chord in these young minds.

"I want them to learn art can make a change in their community, and we all have a voice and this is one fabulous way to share their voice," said Ryatt.

They are voices that can be seen in many pieces of art in the Mural District.

The stunning works of art in Downtown have inspired students to dream big. They are hoping to present their own photography here in the Mural District in the future.