Art as a mediator
In Marigot, a new mural now adorns the premises of the Aides charity. It is a collaborative work created by the artist Espa and young people supported by the Youth Probation Service (PJJ).
Over the course of three days, five young men aged between 16 and 18 were introduced to street art. Under the guidance of artist Nicolas Espa, they learnt the basics of graffiti and street painting. “The aim of the project was to help them regain a sense of calm and self-fulfilment, whilst demonstrating their ability to get involved in a cause of public interest,” explains Laurent Meyer, head of the educational unit at the PJJ in Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélémy. A collective project that came to fruition thanks to the involvement of the Aides association, the PJJ, the Mix’Art association and the artist Espa.
A collective and educational experience
Stencils, brushes, rollers, chalk sketches, spray-painting – the novices discovered various street art techniques. But beyond the tools used, the young people also played a part in designing the mural. “For them to buy into the project, it has to come from them too,” emphasises Angéline Pottier, coordinator of Aides Saint-Martin. At the centre of the mural, intertwined hands, regardless of gender or colour, illustrate the values of inclusion and solidarity championed by the association. This experience also aims to change the way these young people are viewed. “The aim is to ensure they are not stigmatised by an act of delinquency, to show that they are capable of doing good, and to support these young people towards active citizenship,” insists Laurent Meyer. This mural, as well as enhancing the Aides association’s premises, gives greater visibility to its work. It is also part of a wider drive to promote urban art in Saint Martin. For the young people, above all, it leaves a tangible mark of their commitment and involvement in serving society.
