Back (Left to Right): Abby Detrick, Aran Hird, Lydia Reed, Leslie Striebe, Eric Howard, Cole Tucker

Front (Left to Right): Rachel Fernandez, Sammy Sicely, Amber Michelson, Mariel Dunn, Brianna Aldswoth, Andrea Gould Easton

Not Pictured: Reese Clayton, Nikki Ruel, Joanna Sumner

This incredible mural was designed and executed as part of Northfield Middle & High School’s first annual YES, or Year-End Studies program, where students chose from a wide array of two week intensive courses. As such, the mural represents the dictated work of eleven student artists, grades 6-12, over nine days; four supportive adults; months of logistical planning; tons of community donations and support; and the creative mind and direction of one up-and-coming artist, Abby Detrick, whos inspired design won the blessing of the community at Town Meeting Day. We at NMHS could not be more proud of Abby Detrick, Lydia Reed, Aran Hird, Nikki Ruel, Mariel Dunn, Amber Michelson, Brianna Aldsworth, Cole Tucker, Reese Clayton, Sammy Sicely, and Rachel Fernandez; or of the Northfield community who have rallied around this project with all forms of support!

This mural was further made possible by Leslie Striebe, who first dreamed of the project and acted as the community and logistical liaison, as well as Eric Howard, the art teacher at Northfield Middle & High School who oversaw the execution of the mural. The project would not have been nearly as successful without the assistance of Andrea Gould Easton, a Central Vermont artist and muralist best known for her years of murals in downtown Randolph. Lastly, a big thank you to Joanna Sumner for her many hours of painting and support in her role as Northfields most outgoing artistic advocate and educational philanthropist.

Thank you to the Vermont Community Foundation's Small and Inspiring Grant Program, to the Northfield Rotary, and to everyone else in town for the generous donations of time and money, and for the ongoing gratitude. This has been an incredible experience for our young artists, and will stand as a positive symbol and gateway to Northfield for years to come.