Passion Drives Social Change for Middle School Guest

As Middle School students filtered into the Black Box Theatre last Friday morning, the words “Art Will Save the World” greeted them on a large screen. These words of hope are courtesy of DC-based artist Trap Bob, known locally for her vibrant murals, animations, and illustrations, many of which promote messages surrounding social justice issues. 

Trap Bob’s connection to Lowell began earlier this spring. Every February, Middle School students get creative with a door decoration contest to honor Black History Month and educate others about notable Black figures. A 7th grader in Paul’s Delta came up with the idea to reproduce art he had seen on picnic tables in Takoma Park by the artist. The result is a beautiful decoration promoting justice. Academic Technologist Chanel took the opportunity to share it with Trap Bob on social media. “It’s the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen,” said the artist, who was honored to spread her message into schools.

Fast-forward to last week’s Social Justice Day. Middle schoolers spent the day in workshops and meeting with community organizations, and the day began with a special presentation from Trap Bob. She shared her non-linear journey to art as a career, which she now believes represents an “intersection of passion and discipline.” Intending to create hope through her work, Trap Bob encouraged the students to take chances and to create representation in spaces where they don’t normally see themselves, as she has. 

Following a brief Q and A session—that included a quick “I love you” from a 7th-grade fan in the crowd—Trap Bob met the student who brought her work to Lowell. Sporting t-shirts emblazoned with her superhero-styled figures, he and another student thanked her for visiting and snagged an autograph. 

Next, Trap Bob headed up to the art studios to prepare for a masterclass: a double-session workshop where students would design and paint a mural in a Parkside stairwell. The group decided to focus on planets for the mural, guided by the interstellar aesthetic of her work. As they sketched their planets, sticking to an agreed-upon color palette, the students quickly demonstrated an impressive breadth of ideas. Armed with their color illustrations, they headed out to the stairwell to outline their designs in pencil. As they worked, Trap Bob offered comments and compliments, thinking ahead to how she would combine the shapes with unifying color.

Though the mural is still a work in progress (photos to come!), the individualism displayed in the stairwell is remarkable. Inspired by a local figure, our Lowell students are energized to use this public medium to effect change. Said Trap Bob about the power of imagery, “You don’t need too many words, just a feeling. That’s why I believe art will save the world.”