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The first of its kind in the U.S.A.? In Yreka, California?
"What began as an ambitious vision five years ago has blossomed into a breathtaking reality at Yreka High School. Under the dedicated leadership of Mr. Nathan Chismar, Fine Arts teacher and project leader, the Yreka Art Class Mosaic Garden has transformed from concept to a stunning 7,000-square-foot artistic canvas that spells out “YHS” when viewed from above. Future stages will hopefully include an outdoor classroom and a community stage for community use.
The project draws inspiration from two of the world’s most celebrated mosaic installations: Philadelphia’s enchanting Magic Garden and the whimsical Park Güell in Barcelona, Spain. Like these iconic spaces, the Yreka Mosaic Garden combines artistic expression with community gathering, creating a space where art and life intersect in meaningful ways."
-Words by Siskiyou News
The Power of Community Partnership & Grants
Monica Zinda, professional mosaicist and owner of Moonshine Mosaics, made a transformative donation of thousands of top-quality tiles in every color imaginable.
Heather at G&G Ace Hardware donated high-grade exterior paint—a costly gift that proved invaluable to the project’s success for murals.
The State of California provided the Arts, Music & Instructional Materials Grant that was utilized to begin this project and reestablish the YHS Performing Arts Theatre.
The Community Foundation of the North State supported our efforts with the first round of artworks permanently installed, Spring, 2025. They see the value in unique hands-on learning experiences for our youth and community. THANK YOU!
A Living Canvas for Future Generations
"The 7,000-square-foot surface represents more than just current artistic achievement—it’s designed as a living canvas for future years of student art. Each art class will have the opportunity to contribute to this growing masterpiece, ensuring the garden evolves and expands with each new generation of Yreka artists."
-Words by Siskiyou News
Goals:
Ongoing "in and out-of-classroom" experience working in painting, mosaic, hand-made tile, and sculptural elements.
Hands-on community artist mentorship projects
High School students mentoring Elementary School students
Community Space & YHS Mosaic Garden Events.
Natural curation of vines, trees, perennial garden beds.
"Visual Voice" representing diverse backgrounds, dreams, views of our world, and aesthetic creation.
Each year, locally fundraise $2,000.00 for that year's round of tile, mortar, grout, & PPE purchases.
YHS Students at Work
Construction/ Other Photos
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