Designing Connection: How Modernism Architecture and Art Are Shaping Young Global Citizens

The Modernism Architecture Meets Art in a Box exchange has officially wrapped—and what a journey it’s been! Over the course of five days, fourth and fifth graders from Vista Del Monte Elementary in Palm Springs and students from San Miguel de Allende connected not just through Zoom screens, but through creativity, curiosity, and cultural discovery.

With the guidance of architect Peter Blackburn from PS Modern, students explored the clean lines, bold forms, and functional beauty of Mid-Century Modern architecture—a defining aesthetic in Palm Springs. From sketching their dream homes to sharing architectural styles that define their own communities, these young minds were inspired to see buildings not just as structures, but as stories of place and identity.

The Art in a Box kits, filled with design tools, drawing prompts, and model-making materials, helped bring these lessons to life. Every sketch, every question, every “aha!” moment was a reminder that learning is most powerful when it’s shared across cultures and borders.

Looking Ahead: A Celebration of Creativity and Community

On May 20 at 9:00 AM, we’ll celebrate this international collaboration with a special event featuring the Mayor of Palm Springs, community leaders, educators, and our dedicated Palm Springs Sister Cities Board Members. Students will share what they’ve learned, what they’ve created, and how this experience opened their eyes to new ways of thinking and seeing the world.

This celebration is more than a conclusion—it’s a launchpad for what’s possible when we prioritize creative education, global collaboration, and cultural exchange.

Why It Matters

In a time when connection is more valuable than ever, these exchanges prove that even the youngest learners can build bridges of understanding. Through shared creativity, students are developing essential 21st-century skills like communication, design thinking, cultural awareness, and global citizenship.

But none of this happens without your support.

Be Part of the Impact

Your donation helps us grow and sustain programs like Modernism Architecture Meets Art in a Box. It funds art supplies, tech resources, translation support, mentorship, and coordination—all critical to keeping these transformative experiences alive and expanding.

Help us empower the next generation of global thinkers and creators.

Donate Today

Because when we invest in students, we invest in a future without borders.

Students from Vista Del Monte Elementary School unbox their materials to work on their Modernism Architecture Project.