Profile | Tim White

Of the 126 schools in New Orleans only 16 were relatively unscathed by Hurricane Katrina; 81 of which are operation today in either new buildings or “modular campuses”, essentially white trailers on gray gravel, surrounded by chain link fences. The ideal educational environment, one full of imagination, creativity and the freedom to pursue academic goals has been swept away. These prison like environments stifle the creativity that is so inherently important in the developing minds of students. From this bleak reality one can only surmise that generations to come will be forced to learn in this situation. Tim White and artist D. Banfield have set out to change this fact with the Crescent City Art Project. Crescent City Art Project believes in the transformational value of adding art to these places of education. The images painted by volunteers reintroduce the young mind to the possibilities beyond the trailers and chain link. Kelly Batiste, of Fannie C. Williams Elementary, spoke to D.'s images (Creative Director of Crescent City Art Project), “The kids are inspired by his artwork. They are all interested in becoming artists now.” It is the goal of Crescent City Art Project to transform all 81 modular campuses to places of beauty and intrigue. Visit the Crescent City Art Project: www.crescentcityartprojects.webs.com