Music Tamed the Beast

Project Description

In 2003, a team of Groundswell youth artists collaborated to create “Music Tamed the Beast” at Brooklyn High School for the Arts. The youth discussed their aspirations for their future careers. The mural’s theme represents the mission of Brooklyn High School for the Arts, which aims to “encourage and nurture youth to use their works and expressions, their rhythms and sounds, their impressions and designs, their movements and actions for fulfilling their potential, their dreams and aspirations.”
 
In the mural, a large yellow banner reads: “What do you want to do with your life? Music tamed the beast.” To the left, musicians play inspirational songs. To the right, a group of youth hold up carnival masks. On the masks is written different professions that the Groundswell artists aspire to have one day. The different aspects of the Brooklyn High School for the Arts curriculum is represented throughout the mural.

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Project Info

Location: 345 Dean Street Brooklyn, NY 11217
Neighborhood: 
Boerum Hill


Program: 
School-based Programs


Theme: 
Youth Development


Year: 
2003


Partner(s): 
Brooklyn High School of the Arts


Funder(s): 
Levitt Foundation


Lead Artist(s):
Belle Benfield


Participants: 

 

Maximo De La Cruz
Jonathan Orellana
Kerry Paul
Darcy Smyth
Levar Wade
Medium: 
Acrylic on Canvas


Dimensions: 8 x 15 ft

Fun Facts

Research
The phrase “music tamed the beast” was coined by William Congreve, in 1697’s “The Mourning Bride.”
Suggested Activity
Create a carnival mask inspired by your dream job.
Question about the Mural
What are the flags included on the shirts of the youths playing in the background?