Rays of Light Youth Art Project Channels Energy & Creativity of Young Salvadorans

The Rays of Light Youth Art Project, operating since August 2002, provides youths with an enriching alternative to being in the streets. Students of the project, like Yanira, take weekly classes in drawing, painting, silkscreening and more.

Name: Yanira Verónica López Ponce. Age: 18 years old   What kind of work do you do? I don't work or study. I only take drawing and painting classes offered through the Rays of Light Youth Art Project in Tierra Blanca.   Are you married? Do you have children? I'm single and I live with my mom, my brother who is 22, and my sister who is 20.

Yanira with one of her paintings

Why did you choose to participate in this project, and when did you do it?

I started in the painting project in October 2003. I chose to study painting because at that moment, I had just stopped my undergraduate studies because of financial constraints. My father, who used to help me economically, suffered a car accident in which he sustained fractures on both legs and was unable to walk. He couldn't work or help me with all of the expenses. I found myself very unproductive, as I was not studying or working. When I heard about this project I thought it would be a good opportunity to learn something good without an economic cost.

Have there been any changes in your life as a result of participation in the art project? How have these results benefited your family?

Of course my life has changed. I am seeing the difference in myself and I see all the new things I have learned that I didn't know before. I have learned many things like drawing and painting, and different painting techniques like acrylic. Currently, I'm learning to make paper maché models. With regards to the indirect benefits to my family, I believe that my mom is much more calm knowing that I attend classes and learn instead of just watching TV or hanging out with my friends all the time.

What are your plans for the future? How have these been shaped by the art project?

Well, I want to continue studying in the project so that I can learn more and then later put my skills to practice.

What is the significance of this project for your community?

I believe that many young people who used to get together in the streets and waste their time are now committed to coming to painting classes. This not only improves their future, but also the entire community as they are investing their time more wisely by learning with the art project. The art projects also keep other young people from getting involved in street gangs since they can spend their time taking art classes. This alternative is more interesting than hanging out in the streets or joining a gang.