Artwork > Community Mural Projects > Youth Projects > Schools
Our Garden, 2010
Joshua Eaton Elementary School, Reading
Before
After
I was honored to be the artist-in-residence at a local elementary school from January - April 2010. What started as an enrichment program for 2nd graders turned into an all-school mural that was designed and painted by over 500 people! 450 students in grades K-5 contributed their creative talents and lively spirit to create a hallway mural spanning over 100 feet!
From the beginning, the process permeated the school with mural-related curriculum for every class. Math classes participated in sessions where students measured the walls and learned to scale; science classes learned about metamorphosis and tulip planting; english classes engaged in defining mural vocabulary with pictures; etc. Every student then participated in a design session to, literally, "have a hand," in the mural design. The process culminated with students painting their designs on the wall. Kindergartners used their thumbprints to create seeds, first graders used tracings of their fingers to create caterpillars, second and third graders painted "hand" tulips, fourth graders joined their handprints to create butterflies, and fifth graders' designed hands combined to create large flowers.
Parents and teachers got invovled too as they heard about the project from their kids. Afterschool painting sessions allowed exta time for enthusiastic painters and EVERYONE in the school community participated from the janitor to the principal. I am very thankful to all the parent volunteers who contributed their time and talents to help me manage all 450 students; and especially to Deb Gilburg of the PTO who invited me for this project and was a major support throughout.
