Growing Together Art Initiative Transforming Tulsa Neighborhood

An art program is helping transform Tulsa's Kendall-Whittier neighborhood.

It started earlier this year when the organization's Partner Tulsa and Growing Together put out a survey to the community.

“Some of what they expressed was wanting low-cost or free art workshops or art classes that were family-friendly and all ages,” said Alexandra Munoz with Growing Together.

Local artist Juni Peraza heard about the initiative through social media.

“I was like, I am in that neighborhood, so I would love to be able to be a part of it,” she added.

Peraza has lived in Kendall-Whittier all her life and has seen it at its lowest.

“There are a lot more businesses than what I used to see whenever I was a kid,” she added.

That led her to want to be a part of the revitalization efforts and put in an application to teach a zine-making workshop, which is a booklet of one's passions.

“I like being able to see people get excited about the things that they are excited about and also write about it and draw about it,” Peraza continued saying, “I think it is a really cool way to get to know someone.”

The workshops brought color back into Archer Park, and the art that came out of it reflects that.

Liliana Antel has lived in Kendall-Whittier for a decade and took her son and nephews to a few workshops.

She said it was a new experience that allowed them to develop a talent and share it with their community.

The artwork that was created through the workshops will be on display Thursday, Aug. 15 from 5-7 p.m. at The Clare Michael. The art exhibit is free and open to the public.

Munoz anticipates that will create other opportunities, too. 

“Part of the art is going to hopefully travel around the neighborhood and get posted up at different businesses,” she said.

The neighborhood is also working on a mural, pending approval by the city, to put on a wall in Archer Park. The design will be unveiled at the art exhibit Thursday night.