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Moxie Art in a Box Cultural Exchange: Elementary Art Collaboration between Palm Springs and Sister City San Miguel de Allende

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 6, 2024

Media contact: David Perry Associates, Inc / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Moxie Art in a Box Cultural Exchange: Elementary Art Collaboration between Palm Springs and Sister City San Miguel de Allende

Palm Springs Sister Cities, The Foundation for Palm Springs Unified School District and the City of Palm Springs are thrilled to announce an exciting cross-cultural art project between Vista Del Monte Elementary in Palm Springs and Newland School in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. The “Moxie Art in a Box” Cultural Exchange brings together 4th graders from Palm Springs and 3rd and 4th graders from San Miguel de Allende to explore art, symbolism, and cultural elements that bind their cities.

“This collaboration with San Miguel de Allende exemplifies the spirit of cultural connection that makes Palm Springs a truly global city,” said Jeffrey Bernstein, the Mayor of Palm Springs. “Through art, our students not only learn about another culture but also strengthen the bonds that unite our communities across borders.”

“As a district with a large population of students of Hispanic heritage, this project is an invaluable opportunity for our students to connect with their cultural roots while broadening their global perspective,” said Tony Signoret, Superintendent of Palm Springs Unified School District. “The Art in a Box exchange fosters pride, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse traditions that enrich our community.”

“This initiative is a powerful way to inspire our young students, nurturing their creativity while connecting them to their cultural heritage,” said Mauricio Trejo, Mayor of San Miguel de Allende. “By engaging in this cross-cultural exchange, we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will build on these shared values and carry forward the strong ties between our cities.”

The project will run for one week and includes four engaging 20-minute classroom sessions, culminating in a joint Zoom celebration on November 8th with mayors from both cities, school board members, educators, and students.

This collaboration will showcase a vibrant exchange of ideas, symbols, and traditions through the art of Hojalata (tin art), where students will create unique, meaningful artwork inspired by cultural components from their personal lives and their respective cities. Each session will deepen their understanding of their own culture while exploring the richness of the other. The exchange will culminate in a final session where the students from both cities come together via Zoom to present their creations and celebrate the shared experience.

Key Event:

  • Date: Friday, November 8, 2024
  • Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
  • Location: Vista Del Monte Elementary School, Palm Springs, CA
  • Photo Opportunities: The mayors of San Miguel de Allende and Palm Springs, along with the students, and the Palm Springs Unified School Board will be available for photographs during this special event. Don’t miss this chance to capture the heartwarming collaboration between the students as they present their unique artworks.

In addition to the in-person celebration, classrooms in both cities will connect virtually throughout the project. Classes will be conducted in both English and Spanish, allowing students to learn from each other and foster an even greater cultural bond. Students will explore symbolism, carve, decorate, and apply finishing touches to their Hojalata art pieces, guided by expert educators from both cities.

Palm Springs Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein and San Miguel de Allende Mayor Mauricio Trejo will join the Zoom celebration, recognizing the students’ efforts and highlighting the importance of this cultural bridge. Both mayors, along with other dignitaries, will witness the students explain their artwork and share how this cross-cultural collaboration has inspired them.

This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of Palm Springs and its Sister City, San Miguel de Allende, to foster meaningful cultural exchanges, expand students’ world views, and strengthen the relationship between the two cities.

For more information on the Sister Cities initiatives, please visit sistercitiesps.org.