Cornell Cooperative of Kingston’s Relatives As Parents Program R.A.P.P. youth
ages 14-16, have been working with local photographer and interdisciplinary artist
Star Nigro this past year. She has worked with RAPP before on past intergenerational
activities and was excited to come back to teach and direct this educational project.

Star’s proposed eco collage mural “Earthday Everyday”, incorprates everyday objects
old & new, natural items, paint and amazing photos by the students as well. The project
has taken some steps towards it’s creation from it’s beggining mock up 9 sq piece to the
final 32 sq. 5‘x9’ mural.

During the course of this project local community business‘ shared there generousity
by making it extra eco with the Greenmakers (AKA Greenpallete) of New Paltz and
Herzog’s of Kingston. The donations included buliding fascilities/makers space,
professional carpenters to assist Star in creating the 32 tiles made from old palettes
and the 5’x 9’ frame for the piece and easles and building materials.

The inspiration behind the mural was for it to be used as outreach in the community
with undertones of family, unity, love and support. And all things that encompass a
happy relationship. Each youth contributed to this composite piece by painting and
collaging 32 tile palettes in their own style completing one unified image designed by
RAPP youth.

This unique project is best explained by creator of design and RAPP Youth, McKayla
“No matter how different we are ther is always something that brings us together.
Proud to share our traveling Eco Collage Mural ” Earthday Everyday“ and follow
through Ulster County Relatives as Parents Program on Facebook and starnigro.com
to receive updates on exhibitions.