| Everyone has a story, and everyone is an artist. – Darden Smith, Singer Songwriter |
Wesley Housing hosted Darden Smith and The Be An Artist program in five communities to help residents discover and apply creativity in their lives. Smith worked with residents of all ages, from children to older adults. During each workshop, participants collaborated with Smith to write and record original songs.
During one workshop, residents shared how moving to Northern Virginia from places like New York, New Jersey, Pakistan, and Bangladesh has impacted their lifestyle. They titled their song “Starting Over.” Starting over meant, as one resident described it, “an easier life”— a life filled with plenty of educational and employment possibilities. Click here to listen to “Starting Over.”
I’m looking for a better way to live |
Each community wrote lyrics unique to their own experiences. Our youngest group of residents helped Smith write “Summer,” an upbeat song about their favorite time of year. By using songwriting to help students realize their innate creativity, Smith encouraged participants to be proud of who they are and pursue their dreams. He encouraged kids and teens to follow their passion when determining their career path, saying that the best part of his job was that it makes him happy.
Taking these critical steps toward leading happier, more creative lives will help foster positive development in our communities.
Taking these critical steps toward leading happier, more creative lives will help foster positive development in our communities.