When I started volunteering with Brush Fire Painting Workshops I had just began a new chapter in my life. I had ended a four-year relationship with my first real love and was one of the many that could not find work. Needless to say, I had a lot of time on my hands. What drew me to Brush Fire was its process-oriented approach. As a visual artist in the limbo period of life after art school, the only work I enjoyed making was processed based.

Wishing I possessed that freedom of a child, I realized a blank piece of paper scared, angered, and frustrated me. I did not see that lack of confidence in the kid’s faces during my first kindergarten class at Malcolm X. Academy. I witnessed them paining large and small brush strokes and expressive hearts, rainbows and everything in between. As assistants, we followed Naomi’s incredible lead and helped in any way we could. Having had very little experience with kids before Brush Fire I was surprised how easy it was to fall in love with these kids. Each one was unique, smart, silly and loving.

We tried to leave what ever was going on in our lives at the steps of Mission High School, where Naomi would pick us up before driving to Malcolm X. The young painters, try as they might, could not always leave their pain, and anger out of the classroom. R was one of the most expressive students in the class. She had so much energy and excitement for painting that her whole body would shake when she smiled. R had a very soft voice but always had a lot to say about her colorful work. When I asked about her painting one day she explained how the colorful shapes were “candy” with a huge smile. I asked her to explain a part of the painting that was a mixture of browns and grays. She replied, “That’s my house and the guy that was shoot in front of my door.” It broke my heart to know she had witnessed such horror. I could only hope she was safe and let myself be reassured by Naomi that her sister’s and brothers were good kids who protected her.

My experience with Brush Fire changed my life and gave me hope in the healing power of the Arts. This class forced me out of my bed of depression and onto a path of helping others as well as myself. This fall I have started my masters in Expressive Arts Therapy. I would like to thank Naomi and the kindergarten class at MXA for everything they have taught me.

Brush Fire Painting Workshops needs volunteer help with classes, special events, PR, Marketing, fundraising and more. If you are interested in volunteering with Brush Fire please send an email to Naomi@PaintBrushFire.org detailing your interests and experience.