Crompond Elementary School recently showcased a remarkable mural that encapsulates a wide range of emotions, created by its talented and compassionate students. This magnificent piece of art, which now adorns the hallways of the school, is the result of a collaborative effort that involved every student at Crompond, making it a true reflection of their collective experiences and emotions.
The project originated in the school's library, under the guidance of Ms. Thomas. The students embarked on a literary journey, delving into the pages of the book “I Am Human.” Reading this touching story allowed them to identify important overarching themes and emotions. Drawing inspiration from the book, the students engaged in brainstorming sessions to explore personal encounters with each emotion highlighted in the story. Through this process, they discovered commonalities among themselves and all humans, fostering a sense of connection and understanding.
Moving from the library to the music room, Ms. Salustri further reinforced the themes explored in the book. She carefully selected a song that captured the essence of these emotions, emphasizing that although we may have differences, many of us experience feelings the same way.
Next in the artistic journey was the art room, where Ms. Cirillo guided the students in translating their emotions into visual expressions. Introducing them to the world of abstract expressionism, Ms. Cirillo encouraged the students to use art as a means of self-expression. Each student created a unique piece that vividly conveyed one specific emotion. These individualized components were then merged to form the awe-inspiring mural that now graces the walls of Crompond Elementary School.
Ms. Cirillo said the collaborative nature of the project is what made it a truly special experience. “The beauty for me about this project was the collaboration and watching all of the students feed off each other, their shared emotions, and their shared experiences. It was truly a wonder to behold everyone working and learning together on this project. We hope you love it as much as we loved making it.”