Connecting Communities Through Culture, Art and Design
By Andrea Smith, PVF’s Program and Communications Associate
Last month, we had the opportunity to visit Civic Design Studio, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building creative pathways by connecting communities through culture, art and design.
Civic Design Studio manages a design network of eight Oakland Unified School District schools, universities, dozens of local artists, industry professionals, and numerous community organizations creating impactful cultural design projects in neighborhoods throughout the Bay Area. They find innovative design solutions for community-based needs, specifically working with multigenerational and multi-ethnic communities to create public displays and large-scale design build projects bringing their mission to life; building community through design!
During our visit I was fascinated by the Sustainable Urban Design Fablab and farm located at Castlemont High School. We got to explore the lab and how they use technology such as 3D printers, CNC routers, laser cutters and other power tools. By using this kind of technology it helps students learn how they can use art as a career pathway incorporating art in their day to day school schedule. What stood out most was that students have access to the farm providing fresh fruits, vegetables and even eggs from the chickens. This gives students the opportunity to make a homemade breakfast and lunch during school. We got to taste some of the harvest and enjoyed a beautiful lunch during our visit.
Our visit at the Civic Design Studio left me with a deep gratitude for the work they are doing and the lives they are transforming through culture and art. The team is driven by a strong commitment to the students and communities they have built.
It’s organizations like these that are making a real difference in the Bay Area, and we are excited to see the continued growth and success of their students in the years to come. PVF is proud to support the work being done at Civic Design Studio.
