This year’s homecoming week not only showed off our school pride and spirit, but it also displayed the amazing artistic abilities of some of our students. However, for most of the school year, when you walk around the campus, you might notice the dullness and monotone colors of the buildings. These blank, lifeless walls are perfect canvases for displays of student-created, inspiring art. The addition of murals and other artwork on our campus would not only improve the school aesthetically, but it would also increase a sense of school community, spirit, and pride.
More art on campus will have a positive impact on students. A Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) study titled “The Role of Public Art in Enhancing School Environments” concluded that “an engaging and visually stimulating environment can positively influence students’ mood and motivation … Research has shown that students in visually enriched settings tend to be more focused and enthusiastic.” Imagine what large murals with vibrant colors and positive messages would do for our student body.
The RMCAD study added that public art helps “to create a calming and welcoming environment for students of all ages.” The study also noted that many schools found success in student-led mural projects; for example, Rocky Mountain College’s own “Stay Creative” and “Rude Building” murals improved student creativity and community engagement.
MHS is one of the only schools in the District that lacks murals. Many other schools in the District feature large murals as the centerpieces of their school. Additionally, YAMsters, a CLOG designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for artists, frequently hosts mural painting events at Spangler Elementary. So, why are they not able they paint murals at MHS?
Instead of only decorating Sophomore Lane for spirit weeks, ASB and other groups could expand decorations to include murals and art in a variety of places around our large campus. These groups can recruit talented and dedicated student-artists to create permanent or revolving murals that highlight our school’s pride, history, and diversity.
We already have beautiful artwork featured on some teachers’ doors. These works show off students’ talent and also touch on teachers’ interests and personalities. These connections foster community and spirit among students and staff. The same effects can be created on a larger scale with murals.
A system could be developed to determine the purpose and location of a mural. Students would first present a proposal and a draft of their mural design, suggest an optimal location to paint the mural — preferably in places with lots of traffic — and then wait for administration approval to begin painting. Some great places to paint murals include the walls of the theater and the large gym, because of their ample space and high student traffic. Ultimately, this system would ensure murals relate to MHS and have relevant, worthwhile messaging.
Murals and other works of student-created art will inspire Trojans and fill a void with their vivid colors and uplifting ideas. Our school is already a wonderful place, but beautifying our camps will elevate our community even more.
