Art and Mindfulness in Action: Our Summer Residency at Shonto Prep
In the summer of 2017, Upward Together had the honor of facilitating a transformative art and mindfulness residency at Shonto Preparatory School, located in the heart of the Navajo Nation in Arizona. Through our summer intensive program, we collaborated with students, educators, and community members to co-create not just one—but two powerful murals that continue to serve as symbols of resilience, healing, and connection.
Our mission at Upward Together is rooted in the belief that art is more than expression—it’s a tool for mental wellness, cultural connection, and youth empowerment. At Shonto Prep, this vision came alive.
A Residency That Centered Youth, Culture, and Calm
Our summer program was designed to be more than just an art camp. Every morning began with a mindfulness practice—grounding students through breathwork, gentle movement, and guided meditation. These moments of reflection set the tone for the creative work that followed and offered students a chance to connect with themselves and one another in deeper, more intentional ways.
Throughout the residency, students explored themes of identity, ancestral wisdom, and the future they’re dreaming into existence. We used visual storytelling techniques, journaling prompts, and group visioning to draw out meaningful imagery that was ultimately embedded into the murals themselves.
Co-Creating Two Public Murals With Purpose
With guidance from our teaching artists, students took the lead in sketching, designing, and painting two large-scale murals. These murals were not pre-designed by adults—they were co-created with students from start to finish, which is core to our process-over-product philosophy.
The first mural focused on honoring the land and Navajo traditions, featuring symbols like the four sacred mountains, cornfields, and the elements. The second mural captured the spirit of growth, education, and transformation, depicting young people rising into their power, rooted in cultural pride and mindful leadership.
Together, the murals became not only beautiful works of public art but also powerful reflections of the youth voices and community values that define Shonto.
Why Mindful Art Education Matters
At Upward Together, we’ve seen firsthand how art and mindfulness can reduce stress, support emotional regulation, and foster belonging in schools. Research shows that creative engagement paired with mindfulness can significantly improve student well-being, confidence, and focus.
Our residency at Shonto Prep remains one of our most inspiring examples of this truth in action.
Moving Forward: Honoring the Past, Creating the Future
It’s been several years since the summer of 2017, but the impact of those murals—and the connections built during that residency—continues to ripple through the community. We’re deeply grateful to the students, families, and educators at Shonto for inviting us into their story and co-creating a legacy of art, mindfulness, and community healing.
To bring our mindful art programs to your school, workplace, or organization, reach out to us at hi@upwardtogether.art.