Description
The Foundation
The Estria Foundation (TEF) is a non-profit organization working to create social change through the creation of art. TEF was founded by Estria Miyashiro and Jeremy LaTrasse in 2010. It is dedicated to creating lasting systemic social change by empowering local communities to work collectively and participate in our global network. We work towards a society that places value on people and the environment above the accumulation of wealth.
The Estria Battle
The Estria Battle is a national aerosol art competition that honors and advances creativity in the hip-hop arts. The battle was founded in 2007 by graffiti art living legend Estria Miyashiro and arts educator Jason Mateo, with support from Youth Speaks, Inc. Through this art form of messaging, the competition encourages graffiti Writers to communicate social justice issues and empowers communities with spirit and beauty. The battle is a project of the Estria Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Emeryville, CA.
Art in Public inspires our youth and improves our communities. Our extensive work with youth has shown that they long to be recognized for their ideas, creativity and accomplishments. Street art is a visual art form that provides the youth with a way to express their fears, their hopes and their dreams. With proper guidance, this outlaw art has the potential to shift paradigms. Although graffiti Writing is often perceived as vandalism, it remains an art form that requires skill, technique and tremendous commitment to master. Art in Public decorates our cities, attracts people, tells stories, and builds community. When we provide a safe space for artist to create, we lessen the violence in our streets and provide a positive outlet for our young people.
