Young Aspirations Young Artists, also known as YAYA, is hosting a Back to School Bash just in time for the start of school this August. On Saturday, August 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,YAYA will be giving out free food, school supplies, entertainment, and other exciting items to people in the Central City area at the YAYA Arts Center, located at 3322 Lasalle St.
This backyard block party coincides with the recent creation of a new mural on the side of the YAYA Arts Center. This mural, "Community is Essential," was created by YAYA alum Nik Richards as part of the Adult Swim Mural Project, an exhibition that aimed to aid Black artists in the creation of murals around their communities. Richards' is one of three in the New Orleans area showcasing the strength and culture of NOLA. These other murals, created by Jade Meyers and Morrah Burton-Edwards, can be found at the Merchant House and New Orleans Arts Bar.
Richards' mural focuses on what and who was considered "essential" over the course of the last 16 months in a pandemic.
"His image honors culture bearers, healthcare workers, and social justice advocates, and the synergy of community," according to the Adult Swim website.
For more information about YAYA and the
upcoming Back to School Bash, visit yayainc.org.