Introduction / Rationale: Art has always been present in civilization, manifesting in different ways, such as audiovisual media, painting, and literature. Even in adverse conditions, young people produce art, demonstrating its potential as a means of expression, violence prevention, income generation, and influence on public policies. In this context, this study analyzes the "Tuning into Transformation" project, developed by a Brazilian Non Governmental Organization (NGO) that supports young people in conflict with the law.
Objectives: To understand the young people's view about the artistic expression’s impacts in their life, based on their experience at the NGO.
Methods / Approach: The research involved participative observations, questionnaires, and interviews with young people and the staff. The observations were registered in a field diary. The data was discussed by content analyses.
Results / Practice Implications: The results indicate artistic expression can be used as a means to ensure social rights, fostering a sense of belonging, autonomy, and new opportunities for social participation. Occupational therapists have abilities to work in a communitarian approach, promoting this kind of space, focusing on everyday life with the purpose of improving young people's social participation.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: By participating in the project, these young people found a way to be heard, built resilience, and achieved access to new opportunities. The study highlights the importance of integrating arts with young people in conflict with the law, as a strategy to promote youth empowerment, social reintegration, and community development.