The E-Wing of Verrado High School is known for its CTE classes, which offer immense knowledge in subjects such as art, technology, marketing, and much more. In this wing, the halls are covered with murals along the walls, breathing life into the educational environment.

The murals give students opportunities to spread valuable messages and colorful artwork. Some murals are as old as the school itself while others are still being added to this day!

This act isn’t just about beautifying the space. It’s about sparking imagination, fostering a sense of community, and even educating students. Here’s a look at the role muralists are playing in schools, and how they provide a positive impact on fellow students, teachers, and the school culture.

Senior artist Darby Eyer, who worked on the “Art is for Everyone” mural, was inspired by other geometric and colorful artworks created by other people.

“I wanted to create a piece that sparked joy, and create a welcoming appearance to paint art not as scary but as something approachable and enjoyable.”

Eyer encountered many roadblocks and tribulations during his time working on the piece.

“I wasn’t there for the beginning of the mural, thus resulting in a lack of communication with my group mates, creating a couple of problems here and there. Overall, though, I am happy with the result, and it was an exciting experience.”

Students Autumn Wodrich and Dezi Raynaga, who both worked on the untitled phoenix mural together, noticed that the mural that had been there for two years was not in the best shape. They wanted to bring the art piece back to its former glory and breathe more life into it.

The phoenix mural placement is ironic because it is right beside the fire extinguisher. The piece also has a more meaningful meaning though, with its vibrant colors and dynamic form reflecting the personal growth, resilience, and limitless possibilities that unfold as one steps into the future.

The phoenix mural was no exception to problems arising while working on the piece.

“The reason why this specific mural took so long to fix was due to the lack of people committed to taking on this project attributed to the anatomy and proportions being wonky as well as the paint being difficult to paint over added with the weight of upholding the integrity of the meaning,”

Student Anna Craten, who worked on the choir room entrance mural, wanted to bring something meaningful to the choir and Mrs. Spiegel.

“The fundamental message my artwork conveys is that art is for everyone. I wanted to present the notion that art should not be feared or only reserved for a specific group of people.”

This mural also had its fair share of trials and tribulations.

“In the beginning, I struggled with creating ideas that would thoroughly symbolize Mrs. Spiegel and choir both, as well as with keeping the lines as clean as possible and putting them into the right positions to create a sleek and professional look.”

Muralists in Verrado High School are creating more than just visually appealing art, they are fostering deep connections between students, teachers, and the community. Symbolizing acts as powerful as unity, creativity, and social awareness, as well as enriching the educational experience for all involved, therefore inspiring the next generation of thinkers, dreamers, and creators.