Kaleidoscope Dream

Kaleidoscope Dream is a series of eight murals that honor the new industries and accompanying workforce that have revitalized the Brooklyn Navy Yard, including film, green manufacturing, farming, fashion, fine art, and small business. The group researched the unique history of the Brooklyn Navy Yard and its current state of development. They engaged in critical dialogue about their own perceptions, fears, and hopes surrounding the topic of work and labor. As youth preparing to enter the workforce and higher education, the team recognized the importance of these conversations and was determined to make this discourse more accessible to young people. The apprentices utilized their newfound understanding of the neighborhood's history to tackle issues such as the relationship of race and class to todays work and economy and, in particular, the gentrification and de-industrialization of Brooklyn. Inspired by their research and dialogue, the team then developed imagery to celebrate the interconnectedness of work and industry and the positive renewal of the Brooklyn Navy Yard. The mural imitates the movement of a kaleidoscope so that the symbols in one image are found in the next one, representing different stakeholders merging and supporting each other to create a dynamic and interdependent community.