Homeschool x 4: Osmena (Wrong side of the tracks)

I followed the train tracks one day looking for places to put my photos. I came upon this place and right away I knew that I couldn't just paste a picture and not return to see these people again. This bridge is the roof for over 50 people. Somehow, someway they are all able to live in some of the most horrendous conditions I've seen. They were excited for me to post a photo and in return I came back and taught an art class.

Over 50 kids from under the bridge and across the train tracks showed up to participate. I was greatful for the parents help and the Spanish team that was in town for an art show who helped me with the day. I also thought that it might be a nice change to add something to the lessons, so along with writing their names I got them working on collages, too. It was really difficult to introduce the concept of sharing to these children. Growing up having little to no personal items the children were cautious to let the supplies out of their hands. At one point I glanced over and saw a kid lift up his shirt and add another pencil to his waistband that already held three. Can't really say I wouldn't do it any differently.

Anywhere was a place to draw. Train tracks, concrete patches and walls. The children did an amazing job of finding a creative space.

Including on a tire cemented in garbage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRRQZ1k8514&feature=related

Great song for the setting.

The only time the creativity stopped was for a quick break for the trains to roll through. Notice the metal guards on the windows.

A crowd gathered around this kid, John Carlo. He wants to be an architect. His pic is the next one on this post.

John Carlo just grabbed his paper and pencil and went to work. Here is the final product. WOW! A pic of the Spainiards, John Carlo and myself.

Prince Ren$

YO!!

Prince Renz's mother, I think she was happier with the finished product than he was

There are tattoos, then there are tats. This my friend is a tat.