America ReFramed Season 5 Episode 1 A New Color: The Art of Being Edythe Boone

America ReFramed is a documentary series that takes a heartfelt look at lesser-known stories of American life and culture. In season 5, episode 1, viewers are introduced to Edythe Boone, an 80-year-old African American artist from East Harlem, New York.

"A New Color: The Art of Being Edythe Boone" shares the compelling story of Boone's lifelong commitment to creating art that inspires healing and unity in communities that have been torn apart by poverty, violence, and systemic racism. Boone sees art as a tool for social change, and her murals and public art projects have provided comfort, hope, and inspiration to countless individuals and communities.

The episode introduces viewers to Boone's early life in the Jim Crow South, her move to Harlem, and her discovery of art as a way to express the joys and struggles of her community. From her early work producing newsletters for civil rights organizations to her later years creating massive murals in cities across the United States, Boone has dedicated her life to art that makes a difference.

The documentary takes viewers on a journey through several of Boone's most significant art projects, including the creation of a mural in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood, which was conceived as a strategy to deter drug dealers and bring people together. The episode also explores Boone's collaboration with Juvenile Hall in San Francisco, where she created a mural that helped young inmates to express themselves and their experiences in a constructive manner.

As a result of her decades of work, Boone has become a respected and beloved figure in communities across America. The episode features interviews with community leaders and artists who have been inspired by Boone's vision, and who share their own stories about the impact of her work.

Throughout the episode, viewers will see many of Boone's breathtaking projects and murals, each one seemingly more inspiring and impactful than the last. It's impossible not to be moved by the incredible beauty and transformative power of Boone's work, and by the way that her life story serves as a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and hope.

Overall, "A New Color: The Art of Being Edythe Boone" is a moving and inspirational addition to the America ReFramed series. It's a story that reminds us of the profound and transformative potential of art, and of the importance of fighting for social justice and equality in our communities. Boone's work is a testament to the beauty and diversity of the human experience, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.