Why It Matters
This project matters because every students deserves to learn in a safe and inspiring environment in which they can focus on their education. Gun violence has affected our community spaces negatively, so we aim to create a positive space that inspires others to join us in shaping a brighter, safer future for everyone.
Our Approach
Our project aims to transform a barren, underutilized patio into a vibrant and meaningful space that sparks hope, fosters reflection, and promotes relaxation by providing a shaded and safe space for students to gather. The transformation will center around two distinct yet complementary murals, each with its own focus but together contributing to the overall atmosphere of hope, peace, and community.
Mural 1 (Student Entrance): A Message of Hope and Gun Violence Prevention
This mural will serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of gun violence and the importance of creating safer spaces for our youth. Through vibrant imagery and symbolism, the mural will not only highlight the collective strength of our community in the fight for peace and safety, but also serve as an inspiring educational tool. It will be designed to educate students, faculty, and visitors about the realities of gun violence, its effects on communities, and the ways we can work together to prevent it.
Mural 2 (Patio): A Student-Created Vision of Calm and Inspiration
The second mural will be designed by student artists, focusing on creating a relaxing, inspiring atmosphere that complements the energy of the patio as a space for students to gather, reflect, and unwind. This mural will present themes of tranquility, creativity, and community, transforming the patio into a peaceful retreat where students can find respite and reconnect with themselves and one another.
Our plan includes:
Designing the Murals: Collaborating with local artists, student designers, and community members to bring both murals to life.
Revitalizing the Patio: Beyond the murals, the patio itself will be redesigned to be a comfortable and welcoming space where students can spend time together, study, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment.
Engaging the Community: Hosting podcasts centered around the themes of the murals—such as gun violence awareness and mental health—while also encouraging students to take ownership of their space and engage with the mural’s messages.
Creating Lasting Impact: Ensuring that both murals and the patio remain integral to the school environment for years to come, continuing to inspire reflection, community engagement, and a sense of safety and well-being for all who use the space.
Through this project, we hope to create a lasting, perceptible impact—one that fosters dialogue around gun violence prevention and provides students with a peaceful, inspiring space where they can come together, reflect, and feel supported.