Help strengthen Milwaukee's workforce through arts internships that help teens develop career skills

The video at the bottom of the page features a set of five murals and some of the interns who worked along side lead artist Emily Moore to create and unveil them last summer for the gardens at Ruby & 27th streets. The murals depict the history of the Garden Homes neighborhood and Milwaukee, including the great migration, redlining, working in industry, and faith.

In addition to having a paid job working on a large-scale art project, the interns had the opportunity to develop 21st century skills, such as problem solving, collaboration, and creativity.

One intern had the following to say about their experience:

"I feel like I accomplished one of my biggest fears which is socializing with people I don't know."

Another intern made strides in bettering themself:

"The goal I accomplished was improving my communication. Without communication how do you expect to get along with the people you work with. Another one of my goals that I accomplished was to put my self out there and to not be afraid of what people think about me or my work."

They also experienced career coaching, through our partnership with ManpowerGroup during which they were able to work on interview skills, resume buidling and personal branding.

One intern, Kayla pictured above, is a poet. She wrote the words that are incorporated in the Faith mural also above.

"Faith is what you need

to see what can't be seen

Dream beyond what you know

and achieve

what can't be done."

Her likeness, along with the other interns who worked on the project, is featured on the Faith mural.

The team for this project included:

Lead Artist- Emily Moore

Lead Artist Assistants- Celeste Beals, Andrew Nash, and Ashanti Weeks

Intern Team- Alexia Alvardo, Dajuon Dorsey, Daquon Dorsey, De'Shaun Howell, Sergio Howell, Carolina Romo, and Kayla Thornton