Learning Beyond the Classroom Walls: A Graffiti Experience in Bushwick with NJ Educators

Last week, we welcomed back an enthusiastic group of 30+ educators from New Jersey for another unforgettable day in NYC—this time trading cupcakes for spray cans in the vibrant streets of Bushwick. After joining us last year for our Chelsea & West Village Dessert Tour, this group was eager to return, and we were thrilled to host them again—this time for a hands-on graffiti workshop and street art exploration.

To keep things dynamic, we split the group into two. One half dove straight into the creative process, working alongside a local graffiti artist to learn different spray techniques and practice their very own throw up—a quick, stylized graffiti tag typically done with bubble letters and two or three colors. It’s one of the most recognizable styles in graffiti culture and gave everyone a chance to get their hands colorful.

Street art by The Bushwick Collective.       

Meanwhile, despite the light rain (which turned to sunshowers mid-tour), the second group took to the surrounding streets, exploring the ever-evolving outdoor gallery that is Bushwick. They learned the stories behind iconic pieces as big as a full city block and as small as a few inches. They discovered the artists who created them, and gained a deeper appreciation for the cultural and political layers woven into the walls.

After a mid-point switch, the groups traded roles, giving everyone a full-circle experience—creating their own pieces and soaking in the local street art landscape.

We loved seeing these educators out of the classroom and fully immersed in NYC’s artistic side. Their energy, creativity, and curiosity brought the day to life. One participant had a lot of experience spray painting furniture in her garden but had never gotten to try her hand at a more creative use.

It’s always an honor when groups come back for more, and this return visit made it clear: there’s always another story to tell, and always more art to discover.

We can’t wait to see where their next NYC adventure takes them—and we’ll be ready with paint cans or pastries in hand.

See you on tour soon!