Spartan Snapshot: Making Murals (And Memories)

The two art rooms on SPA's Lower School campus have always been spaces designed for creativity and exploration. And now the lower level hallways are, too. 

Recently, Grades 1 and 2 students have been learning about murals and mural artists. During their art classes, they talked about the different murals they've seen in their neighborhoods and learned about famous murals around the world. They learned that murals often depict social issues, community, and the environment, and that they help to bring beauty to unexpected spaces. 

Our young Spartans then took their learning to the next level under the inspiring guidance of St. Paul Academy and Summit School faculty member Anna Ruhland. When students took to the hallways in April, paintbrushes in hand with the task to paint the lower level, Anna notes that “Students are practicing collaboration as we work together to paint a mural representing something we all decided on and love: nature, public spaces open to all kids, and a giant SPA park! Students feel really excited to be a part of something this large.”

Any uncertainty students had about actually painting the school’s walls quickly dissipated as they realized that they truly had the power to transform their space. They mixed their own colors, partnered on particular areas — “Let’s do blades of grass over here” — and showcased the uniquely special educational environment that SPA cultivates. We hope you come and visit our lower school mural and celebrate our student artists.