Creative Street Art at Walltown
By: Elaine VanHoose, Recreation Assistant Supervisor
The creative youth of Durham discovered a new realm of art this spring at Walltown Park Recreation Center. Beginning Street Art led by instructor Brandon Hampton, allowed boys and girls ages 10 -15 the chance to learn the outdoor art in a safe, responsible way. During the 2-hour sessions, participants used spray paint on shrink wrap strung between trees to learn the different types of nozzles and the techniques used to create street art then advanced to wood to bring their colorful creations to life.
Hampton, a local artist who reached out to Durham Parks and Recreation by contacting Danielle Haynes, School-Age Care Program Administrator, and Tom Dawson, Assistant Director, to create the program said reception was overwhelming positive. “Parents have expressed that their kids enjoy coming, as well as their amazement at the kids’ artwork,” he said.
By the end of the 6-weeks, participants learn various styles of street art and how to practice within the state laws. The program is also beneficial as a coping strategy for those seeking a new creative outlet. “I’d love for the kids to embrace who they are and express it to the world artistically,” Hampton said. “I want them to understand nothing is impossible – everything is achievable with confidence, patience and practice.”
Walltown is offering other Beginning Street Art sessions in the summer and fall under the direction of Hampton and his volunteer assistant Shante Stewart. Hampton is also one of several local street art artists who contributed to the amazing artwork at the new West Ellerbee Creek Trail tunnel.
A special thank you goes out to Danny Blake, Custodial Supervisor, and Dwight Powell, Walltown Custodian, who were instrumental in constructing the wall of wood for participants to create on.
The creative youth of Durham discovered a new realm of art this spring at Walltown Park Recreation Center. Beginning Street Art led by instructor Brandon Hampton, allowed boys and girls ages 10 -15 the chance to learn the outdoor art in a safe, responsible way. During the 2-hour sessions, participants used spray paint on shrink wrap strung between trees to learn the different types of nozzles and the techniques used to create street art then advanced to wood to bring their colorful creations to life. Hampton, a local artist who reached out to Durham Parks and Recreation by contacting Danielle Haynes, School-Age Care Program Administrator, and Tom Dawson, Assistant Director, to create the program said reception was overwhelming positive. “Parents have expressed that their kids enjoy coming, as well as their amazement at the kids’ artwork,” he said.
By the end of the 6-weeks, participants learn various styles of street art and how to practice within the state laws. The program is also beneficial as a coping strategy for those seeking a new creative outlet. “I’d love for the kids to embrace who they are and express it to the world artistically,” Hampton said. “I want them to understand nothing is impossible – everything is achievable with confidence, patience and practice.”
Walltown is offering other Beginning Street Art sessions in the summer and fall under the direction of Hampton and his volunteer assistant Shante Stewart. Hampton is also one of several local street art artists who contributed to the amazing artwork at the new West Ellerbee Creek Trail tunnel.
A special thank you goes out to Danny Blake, Custodial Supervisor, and Dwight Powell, Walltown Custodian, who were instrumental in constructing the wall of wood for participants to create on.
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