SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- A Springfield nonprofit is spending the summer working with local teenagers to create murals across the state, using art as a form of community engagement.

Commonwealth Murals operates out of the New North Citizens’ Council Youth Center in Springfield. Ten student volunteers, including 16-year-old Annalisse Laboy, are working with the organization this summer.

“I’m mainly into community work, which is why I see myself here the most because I love community outreach and hands-on help here,” Laboy explained. “And I feel like art is the perfect way to show that.”

Laboy said the environment encourages experimentation. “There’s no mistakes. Everything can be painted over and everyone is here to guide you and help you through the way,” she noted.

Each project is a partnership with a community organization. Executive Director Britt Ruhe said the inspiration for each mural comes directly from the community.

“We have these intentional space values in our studio…and one is present listening,” Ruhe explained. “And we talk about how it’s showing up and really being present, listening to people and what they’re telling you, and, you know, believing it and taking it seriously and going from there.”

Since 2019, Commonwealth Murals has installed more than 100 murals across Massachusetts, working with more than 100 artists and teachers. More than 1,000 students have helped paint murals for their own schools.

The organization is also offering a three-month training program for 16 local artists, during which participants will learn to paint and install five different murals across Springfield.

Ruhe said the studio will also host open nights for the public. “We’ll be having open studio nights where people can just come hang out in our studio and paint on panels with us in the studio too,” she added.

Those interested in getting involved can find information about upcoming events on the organization’s Instagram at @common.wealth.murals.

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