Riverzedge Arts Partners with The Basics Southcoast and HEED Coalition
Working with our partners at the Woonsocket Education Department and Project AWARE, over the past year, Riverzedge Arts youth artists and designers have been engaged in a project to help creatively tell the story of The Basics. The Basics are five principles that support vibrant learning and brain development in the early stages of life.
Beginning with learning and creating a deeper understanding of what The Basics principles are, youth in the Riverzedge Graphic Design Studio got to work on mural designs to help underscore these vital principles. As the designs progressed, our friends at the HEED Coalition in New Bedford, MA came to talk with us and help guide our journey. They have been leading work around The Basics in this area for many years. Their expertise and guidance helped our youth in both Graphic Design and Public Art Studio have a better understanding of The Basics, how they implemented a similar project in New Bedford and helped us put the finishing touches on our mural designs!
From there, youth in our Public Art Studio got to work painting the murals. Over the summer of 2024, the Public Art Studio spent 7 weeks painting these amazing pieces. The results are five, large-scale murals celebrating the five Basics Principles that are being installed across Woonsocket. Our hope is that the entirety of Woonsocket has the opportunity to engage with and learn more about The Basics and implement them into their families lives. Each mural also features a QR code that when scanned, will take them to a website to learn more about The Basics and other resources available to them and their families!
Click the images below to download printable coloring book versions of the murals!
Where to find The Basics murals in Woonsocket
"Talk, Sing, Point"
You can find this mural at Hair We Are,
located at 311 Cass Ave, Woonsocket, RI 02895.
"Explore Through Movement and Play"
You can find this mural at the Woonsocket YWCA, located at 514 Blackstone St, Woonsocket, RI 02895. The mural is displayed on the Verry St. side of the building.
"Maximize Love, Manage Stress"
You can find this mural at Thundermist Health Center of Woonsocket, located at 450 Clinton St, Woonsocket, RI 02895.
"Count, Group, and Compare"
You can find this mural at Stan The Bulldog Eason Playground, located on the corner of Center St. and Hope St. in Woonsocket, RI.
"Read and Discuss Stories"
You can find this mural at Governor Aram J. Pothier School, located at 420 Robinson St, Woonsocket, RI 02895.
Use the interactive map below to view the locations of all 5 murals