In 1996, a group of New York City artists, educators, and activists founded Groundswell with the belief that collaborative art-making combines the sanctity of personal expression with the strength of community activism — and produces unique and powerful outcomes.
Nineteen years later, nearly 500 murals have been completed by Groundswell, working with groups of underserved, marginalized, and economically disadvantaged youth and professional artists, in collaboration with more than 300 community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and government agencies throughout New York City. These compelling artworks demonstrate our enduring belief that art creates community and community creates change.