Paints & Rec was founded in 2023 by Courtney Austin alongside local youth who shared a passion for creating public art in their community. What began as an idea driven by young artists quickly gained momentum when Canandaigua City Manager John Goodwin recognized the opportunity to support youth growth through the visual arts. Together, John and Courtney collaborated to identify locations throughout the City of Canandaigua where young artists could bring murals to life.

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Paints & Rec’s first project took place in 2023 at Jefferson Memorial Park and Skate Park, where 100 participants ages 7–16 helped create vibrant public murals that reflected the creativity of the community’s youth.

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The program continued to grow in 2024 when Paints & Rec was welcomed back through the City of Canandaigua’s Parks and Recreation program to paint a mural at the Canandaigua Fire Department. That year, participation expanded to 150 young artists, along with 8 Junior Camp Counselors (JCCs) who shared their mural experience and mentorship with newer artists.

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By 2025, Paints & Rec expanded to 175 participants and introduced a leadership structure that included a Head Camp Counselor, Riley, 14 Junior Camp Counselors, and 15 Very Important Painters (VIPs). That same year, the program was honored with the Official Community’s Choice Award for After School/Summer Camp Program.

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Beyond murals, Paints & Rec artists have continued to grow their impact by taking on creative opportunities across the community—from face painting to window art—bringing color, creativity, and connection wherever they go.

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Summer 2026, Paints & Rec welcomed over 350 participants, along with an expanded team of staff, continuing its mission of empowering youth through creativity while enhancing the visual landscape of the Canandaigua community. Head JCC Riley, age 15, now manages a team of 35 Junior Counselors. Paints & Rec was awarded the New York State Empire Senate Award for excellence in community service.

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What began with 100 young artists and a few blank walls has grown into something much bigger than murals. Paints & Rec has become a place where young people are trusted with real responsibility, encouraged to take creative risks, and given opportunities to grow from artists into mentors and leaders.

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As Paints & Rec continues to grow, our goal remains the same: to create meaningful opportunities for youth to make their mark—not only on the walls of their community, but within the community itself.

We aren't just painting murals. We're building artists, leaders, relationships, and a community where young people know their ideas matter.