CANS
CANS is a program where students analyze the cultural significance of spray-paint-based art while learning fundamentals in lettering, design, composition, and spray technique. Classes include an exploration of both historical lettering/styles and how they influence modern interpretations around the Portland area. Throughout the program, students will gradually develop their ability to produce stylized letters while exploring technical elements in paint/nozzle choice, color blending, layering, dimension/ shadows, and more. In other words, we talk about what makes good graffiti dope and learn how to do it.
LOCATIONS
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Beaverton High School
Every other week during BeaverLodge.
Click on the registration button above to sign up.
Funded by Internal Fundraising
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McDaniel High School
Every Tuesday after school
Starting January
Click on the registration button above to register.
Funded by IRCO / SUN Program.
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Harrison Park Middle School
Mondays after school starting April 1st.
Contact SUN Coordinator Jaime Flowers for registration.
Funded by IRCO / SUN Program.
CANS PROJECTS
CLASS RESOURCES
Class 1: Cholos en LA
Link to full Presentation (must request access to view)
Historical Context
1920s-50s in LA: Shoe Shine Boys, systemic incarceration —> standardized styles
1538: First printing press in the Americas, use of Sevilla blocks (stylized Germanic fonts)
Style:
Olde English became the official font of headlines, street signs, birth certificates
La Placa (roll call) became a way to make your crew official
Consistent height, lettering, bold
Later became stylized versions