By Lily Munnik
A single good action can spread its wings and ultimately bring about a substantive positive change.
How about the collective power of public art, youth and talent, all in the shape of brightly painted butterflies?
What’s the impact of an imaginative exhibit that tells the story of a community that nurtures talent at an early age or treasures the inner growth of kid artists whose creative work finds realization?
A visualization of these questions has landed on the south lawn of the University of Northern Iowa’s McLeod Center this summer, thanks to the work of Youth Art Team, a Cedar Valley organization that will turn 16 in October.
It is a sight to behold. There, about 40 brightly painted butterflies flutter across the grass, each representing a story created by young local artists. The installation, which opened on July 14, will be on display until Aug.13.
The colorful butterflies rightfully catch the eye, but the project’s true purpose goes far beyond public art.
“Beautifying the community has always been the goal of Youth Art Team,” said Carole Yates, Youth Art Team’s board director and board member.
What began as a grassroots group of young artists in 2010 has grown into an organization serving more than 50 artists ages 5 to 18 across four teams. The organization’s leadership model allows experienced student artists to mentor younger participants while working alongside professional artists and volunteers to create large-scale public art installations throughout the community.
“Youth Art Team is an actual team of artists,” said Heidi Fuchtman, executive and creative director for Youth Art Team. “They are artists who work together over a long period of time and grow really deeply in their relationships and leadership skills. Each team is made up of artists from all parts of the community, coming together to do something incredible with art.”
The team partners with cities, schools and organizations to create projects that transform public spaces while allowing children and teenagers to see their ideas become a reality.
For Stephanie Fever, the organization’s arts program coordinator, that transformation happens just as much within the students as it does in the artwork itself.
A professional artist and a 2006 UNI graduate, Fever volunteered with Youth Art Team for years before accepting a full-time position in March.
“The coolest part of my job is being able to show up,” said Fever. “There’s this magical thing that happens when an adult hears them, and they have a say in something.”
Rather than simply following directions, students help shape every project from the beginning.
“They have a voice in all of it,” said Fever. “They get to choose their colors and each of the shapes, and they had a voice in what parts would be what color.”
For the butterfly installation, 41 students participated, including 28 members of the Youth Art Team and additional youth from the YMCA and the surrounding community.
Before picking up a paintbrush, students first explored public art from around the world, discussing how large-scale artwork can influence communities and improve quality of life, such as the works of artist Christo Javacheff and his partner Jeanne Claude. The pair’s artwork was meant to be enjoyed in the moment and the context of its environment.
They also learned about the “butterfly effect” from Youth Art Team founder Heidi Fuchtman — the idea that one small action can create far-reaching change.
The sculptures carry another layer of symbolism. Their shapes are inspired by World War II barriers, used to stop tanks and troops, transforming an object once associated with conflict into one representing peace and hope.
Students then spent several afternoons designing, painting and assembling the butterflies, first creating small-scale models before bringing the larger sculptures to life.
For Fever, watching her students complete their work is one of the most rewarding moments.
“Being able to build the butterfly and the kids are like ‘I made that,’” she said. “It gives them confidence, and it’s now out in this world, and we’re letting them have the voice.”
That confidence is something many students say extends well beyond art.
Niara Myles, 18, began attending Youth Art Team when she was in kindergarten after watching her older siblings participate. Eleven years later, she now serves as the organization’s programs and office intern after graduating from Waterloo East High School in May. This fall, she will attend Hawkeye Community College to play volleyball while pursuing a career in pharmacy.
“My first impression of Youth Art Team was that I’m going to have a lot of fun here, and because I was a little kid, I just wanted to draw,” said Myles.
As she grew older, the organization became more than just an after-school activity. She started working there as a freshman in high school.
“I think working here has been a good start to develop a lot of skills for myself and to prepare myself for what I plan to do after high school,” she said.
Being involved with Youth Art Team also helped Myles gain confidence in communicating with others.
“I wasn’t a big communicator, and I feel like this place put me out there more,” she said. “Youth Art Team is a nice place to be because everybody is nice and there’s no need to be afraid to talk to people here.”
Za’Marion Epps shares a similar experience.
The 18-year-old graduate of Expo Alternative Learning Center first joined Youth Art Team in third grade after his older siblings participated in the program.
“I didn’t have something to do after school, so I would go here,” said Epps.
Nine years later, he now works as the organization’s programs and facilities intern while considering a career in the skilled trades.
“It’s convenient, and it has taught me essential skills in life like proper emails and communication,” he said.
His advice to younger participants reflects the environment he found there.
“Don’t be afraid to open up and try new things or meet new people,” said Epps. “This place is like a family.”
That sense of belonging is what Fever believes makes the organization unique.
“I believe in this organization so much, and there is something that just feels very life-giving when you can see a child light up,” she said. “You learn so much even as an adult.”
