Transforming Spaces, Transforming Lives: Youth Oasis Murals Painted with Purpose

Youth Oasis Mural by artist Avi Weill

At Youth Oasis in Baton Rouge, the walls are more than just walls. They’re canvases of resilience, creativity, and transformation, brought to life through vibrant murals painted with recycled paint donated by Greensheen.

We sat down with Liniah Slater, Basic Center Manager-Youth Services, to talk about the meaning behind the project and the impact it’s had on the young people and community members who walk through their doors.

A Safe Space for Youth in Transition

“Youth Oasis is a nonprofit organization that provides shelter, support, and life skills programming to youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability,” Liniah explains.

“We serve youth ages 11–24, many of whom have experienced trauma, foster care, or systemic barriers to stability. Our goal is to help them not only survive but thrive by offering a safe space and a sense of community.”

For young people in crisis, having a place that feels safe, welcoming, and affirming can be the first step toward healing.

Why Murals—and Why Recycled Paint?

The inspiration to create murals was born out of a simple but powerful idea: to make the space feel more youth-centered, warm, and inspiring.

“Using recycled paint felt like a meaningful and intentional way to tie in values of sustainability, resourcefulness, and transformation, much like the journeys of the youth we serve,” Liniah shares. “It was about creating beauty with what we already had, while being mindful of our budget and our environment.”

With the support of The Walls Project and Greensheen, the project came to life in vivid color.

The Power of Art in Community Spaces

The reaction from both youth and staff was immediate and heartfelt.

“Youth were excited to see themselves reflected in the artwork, and it made them feel like the space was truly theirs,” says Liniah. “Staff appreciated the shift in atmosphere; it turned a plain space into one that sparks conversation, pride, and healing. Youth often bring friends in and say, ‘Look what we helped make,’ which is so powerful.”

What was once a sterile, institutional space now radiates energy, ownership, and belonging.

Lasting Impact Beyond the Walls

The murals have not only changed the atmosphere inside Youth Oasis but have also created ripple effects in the wider community.

“The murals transformed our space from institutional to intentional,” Liniah reflects. “They’ve sparked curiosity and appreciation from visitors and community partners, which helps deepen understanding of the work we do. For our youth, the murals are a reminder that their voices matter and that they can leave a lasting mark.”

Finding Value in What’s Overlooked

The choice to use recycled paint wasn’t just practical; it was deeply symbolic.

“Using recycled paint showed that even what’s been discarded or overlooked still holds value, just like the youth we work with,” Liniah says. “It reinforced the idea that we can do impactful, beautiful things even when resources are limited. It was a sustainable, cost-effective, and deeply intentional choice that aligned perfectly with our mission and values.”

A Living Testament to Resilience

The murals at Youth Oasis stand as living proof that creativity and care can transform not only physical spaces but also the lives of those who inhabit them. With the help of the donated paint, Youth Oasis has turned walls into reminders of hope, strength, and the importance of every young person’s voice.

“These murals will always represent more than art,” Liniah concludes. “They represent belonging, resilience, and the possibility of transformation.”