The Babylon Chapter of the National Art Honor Society has always strived to use their artistic abilities to make change. This is exemplified by our students participating in an organization known as the “Memory Project,” creating portraits for children across the world under war, violence, neglect, and/or poverty.
This year Babylon artists got paired with 15 children from Syria. They created detailed works of art highlighting each of the kids’ individual traits, emphasizing their identity. In doing this, they create a sort of connection with the child despite the distance. Although living in such different conditions, we are all human. At the end of the day, we all yearn for the same things. This is what the Memory Project is all about.
This impact is not just one-sided for Babylon students. The children on the receiving end get to feel loved and appreciated – something that goes a long way. They see that someone across the world care so much about them and their individual details. The artist traces their hands on the back of each portrait, allowing the children to deepen their connection with their artists.
In doing this, Babylon artists successfully use their art to making the world a better place. The emphasis on the individuality of these kids fosters the emphasis on the collectivism of all races, specifically the human race.
-Jackson Maurino, distinct member of NAHS
