Juntos Pintando: Art That Transforms Lives and Connects Generations
Sérgio Astral began teaching art classes for children and young people, and with their suggestions, a series took shape. "After a few days of class, where I would showcase painting techniques and art videos featuring graffiti artists, designers, sculptors, among others, they came up with the idea of creating a series of paintings," he says. According to the artist, he passed the ball to the students and asked them to suggest the theme to be explored. "I asked them to tell me what they were experiencing, and unanimously they wanted to paint YouTubers," Sérgio Astral confirms.
by; Sérgio Astral
6/25/20232 min read
In 2017, I had the opportunity to participate in a collective project that transformed my life. By volunteering at the NGO J.U.N.T.O.S (Jardim Unidos Num Trabalho de Obras Sociais), located in Parque Savoy City, in the East Zone of São Paulo, I discovered the magic of art and the power to positively impact the lives of underprivileged children.
Initially, I started teaching art classes to the youth at the NGO. During this process, the idea of creating a series of paintings emerged. The students were so enthusiastic about art that they proposed portraying YouTubers, digital influencers whom they admired and followed on social media.
Although I was not familiar with the world of YouTubers, I decided to embrace the challenge and dive into this new perspective. With the support and contribution of the students, the series of paintings began to take shape. Each one brought their own ideas, techniques, and styles to the artworks. Collaboration and teamwork were essential in this creative process.
After completing the paintings, the idea of sharing the results with a wider audience arose. I proposed the exhibition to be held in metro stations, spaces of high traffic and visibility. After much effort and negotiations, we obtained the authorization, and the "Juntos Pintando" exhibition became a reality.
For five months, the Tatuapé, Sé, Madalena, and Masp metro stations transformed into true art galleries. The YouTuber paintings came to life, capturing the attention of passengers. It was an emotional experience to witness the impact that art can have on people's daily lives.
This exhibition would not have been possible without the collaboration of the students, the J.U.N.T.O.S NGO, and the support of the São Paulo Metro Company - Metrô. It was a collective achievement, an example of how art can unite and transform lives.
Although the exhibition came to an end, the memories and lessons learned remain alive in our hearts. The "Juntos Pintando" project was proof of the power of art as an instrument of inclusion, expression, and social transformation.
Looking back, I feel honored to have been part of this project and to have shared such special moments with these children. The teamwork, dedication, and passion for art showed us that together, we can create something truly meaningful.
"Juntos Pintando": a story of art, unity, and hope. An experience that I will always carry with me and that continues to inspire me to support social projects and spread the importance of art in our lives.
Link de algumas matérias na mídia:
https://acessocultural.com.br/2017/08/exposicao-juntos-pintando-com-youtubers/
Discover the Inspiration Behind the Customized Paintings of YouTubers at the NGO J.U.N.T.O.S
11-99598-6513
sergioastral@hotmail.com
São Paulo - Brasil
