The Power of a Mural.
During a recent visit to Colleton County School District we had the pleasure of painting new murals, teaching art classes, and gifting participating staff and students. We’re often asked about the value of the overall experience, and the painting process itself. Most recently, front page of “The Press and Standard”, albeit political, is an in-depth look into that very experience – and the criteria needed to be awarded educational stipends. Mural Mural on the Wall enjoys educating others about our art process but encouraging students to design and follow their own path reigns supreme.
What price do you put on positively changing a child’s life?
With respect, let’s not underestimate “school spirit”, your school’s mascot was created on that reason alone. A mural of your school’s mascot inspires students to become more attached and involved, especially when they are able to participate. An increase in pride leads to a decrease in destruction. The artwork itself can be used in a myriad of ways to raise funding for school needs; T-shirts sales, card-stock, community led initiatives. It also serves as the perfect backdrop for admin and class photos. A mural in your sports arena not only makes you look great (even if you’re losing) but entertains, almost distracting, the opposing team giving the home team an advantage. Art classes have a permanent learning tool, teachers can reiterate challenging subjects and students can learn all while eating lunch. Alumni gifts to the graduating class or a memorial for a variety of occasions. A mural is constant.
Below are a few answers to questions from the community.
Who are the artists commissioned for the murals at both CCHS and CCMS?
Mural Mural On The Wall. Owned and operated by the Ridgeways.
Read more about Stacy Ridgeway here.
Read more about STACE here.
Where are the artists from?
Based out of New York and Colorado. The Carolinas are a second home for MMOTW and we always look forward to our return.
Did the students or the artist paint the cougar at the high school?
Both.
Did parents sign waivers of liability for participating because of the use of scaffolding?
No, we don’t use scaffolds. All participating art students worked from the floor, no higher than their height. Any ladders or machinery used is only available to the artists.
If the artist painted it, how is that a direct learning experience for the students?
The primary intent of our art program is to enrich and support ongoing arts education, and in some cases, teach art where there is none. In Colleton County’s case it was atmospheric, color and linear perspective. Art students rotated between multiple learning stations to practice and develop techniques. We also teach while we paint, incorporating and expanding the lesson plans used by the art teacher.
Who planned the designs? Was it the artists or the students?
All designs are planned by the artists, students, clients and community. Most are a derivative of the school’s mascot.
What are the learning opportunities for the students?
Outlined in detail under “Artist in Residence” on MuralsOnTheWall.com – Students can learn everything from architecture to calligraphy. We take it a step further by offering internships and job placement for students looking to advance their art career.
How does a mural “learning wall” become a priority over academic improvements, buying books, and instructional aids?
A mural can be a combination of all and more. The academic improvements are made clear and verbalized in art form for the entire school. Books are inevitable; illustrations aid literature by giving visual context to words. A mural accomplishes this while adding instructional aid. The contents of your mural are a direct draw from the school’s environment and lesson plan.
What were the other potential programs that could have been up for consideration in lieu of the artist residency mural project?
Only programs that improve academic growth and boost school spirit while providing students with a hands on learning opportunity were considered. Students were also rewarded with art paraphernalia for their participation.
Does “Priority” and “Aid to District” funding include provisions for materials, supplies, curriculum components, and expendables needed in the classroom?
In most cases, yes. Please refer to your school district for details.
