the exception of Caldwell, the film's stars were handpicked through auditions of kids from UCAN, an Irving Park-based organization that works with 12,000 youth each year, many of whom are wards of the state.

Claude Robinson, UCAN's executive vice president, said "The Painter" fits in line with UCAN's mission to focus on the problem of urban violence while helping youth who've suffered trauma become future leaders.

"Everything we do is with the voice of young people," said Barbara West Stone, UCAN's Chief Development Officer. "We need awareness, and what better way than a powerful film like this?"

Aside from empowering the young teens through their roles in "The Painter," several kids were invited to shadow the film's crew during the three days of shooting.

"It's been a life-affirming experience," Cooper said asone young girl sat in his director's chair intently watching the filming process. "These kids are spilling over with potential — they've been inspiring and inspired."

An exact release date for the film hasn't been set, but according to DeAnna Cooper, the film's producer, "The Painter" will be shipped to as many festivals and premieres as possible upon completion.

"This is a passion project for us," she said of herself and her director husband. "He's my director of choice and this is the right time to get people engaged."