Youth Mural Program (Fiscal Sponsor: Grant County Community Foundation)
Grants Awarded
In 2024, the Gila National Forest will celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the first designated national wilderness area. In preparations of this celebration the Forest Service has partnered with the Youth Mural Program to commemorate this milestone through public art murals created and designed by area youth. Two permanent murals will connect the Gila, Aldo, and Blue Range Wilderness areas to Silver City NM, and surrounding communities. The murals will be maintained in partnership with the Forest Service and Youth Mural Program, creating a lasting legacy of public land stewardship and wilderness education.
The Youth Mural Program located in Grant County is a visually dynamic program that engages young people and teaches them about the history and culture of their community while providing artistic jewels throughout the area. YOUTH MURAL PROGRAM GOALS: 1. To teach students about the history and culture of their community through the arts. 2. To connect students with their peers, local artists, and community members. 3. To teach students that public art can enrich and enhance the quality of life in their community. 4. To engage young people in the outdoors.