Joy in Action

Joy in Action! brings together Walt Morey Middle School students and Portland State University Graphic Design majors to explore joy, social justice, art, and activism through collaborative projects. Students created videos, posters, comics, and artwork reflecting their experiences and aspirations for change.

Inspired by adrienne maree brown’s Emergent Strategy, the project encourages creative expression, self-care, and community activism. Students responded to key prompts like What brings me joy? and What change do I want to see in my community?, using art as a tool for reflection and empowerment.

This series of projects and exhibition is part of Friendtorship, an initiative that expands access to arts education for middle and high school students while fostering mentorship and collaboration. Through storytelling, design, and activism, Joy in Action! highlights the power of creativity to shape our world.