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Scott Memorial Middle School Mural Project

click on thumb nails for a better view: 

 Mural started June 2003

library 025.jpg (82246 bytes)               mural.jpg (77439 bytes)              june27 mural.jpg (76916 bytes)   

almost finished! See bottom...

Back Sunflower wall with sitting space. Hope to find a nice chair!

 All schools need an environment that is creative and welcoming to the children. Unfortunately schools are built as state 'institutions' lacking in personality (except for the teachers!) and most are painted in drab dreary colors, so I was so happy when the librarian from Scott called to ask if I would be interested in doing some murals to brighten up the place!

There is a lot of work involved in the planning and execution of a mural. Meeting with the people involved and hearing their ideas and then researching the various visual concepts!

In the end we decided on a nature theme that would be cheerful and inviting.

I decided to paint a well known African American writer, as a child. Scott was originally an all black school back in the days of segregation and so it seemed fitting to delve into black history for an interesting person. I got this idea from the children's book "Coming Home" It is a very interesting book about Langston Hughes and how he searched all his life for a home and found it within himself and the expression of his thoughts and feelings through writing!

Drop by Scott sometime and have a look!

langston.jpg (117091 bytes)

Click for large picture of Langston Hughes

Well, It is July the 22nd and I think I am almost finished!

I just need to put in some final details and creatures and it will be done
I have really enjoyed the creation of this mural and learning about another great American like Langston Hughes!

I want to say a BIG THANK YOU to Susan Thigpen and my daughter Cassidy, who helped me paint all the sky background the first night. That was a huge help and I sure appreciate it!
the beginning!.jpg (83886 bytes) Click for first night photos!

Also Thank you to Barbara who let me in the school  every night  and gave me good company, advice, encouragement and a birthday present!!

July 25th.

I came back one more night to give Langston Hughes a dog, even though I didn't read anywhere that he had one, I thought it would be a nice last touch. 

Students, the next time you are assigned a biography, may I suggest Langston Hughes!

The love of reading is a life time reward!

Oh Yes, Thank you to Lowe's in Wytheville and Wal-Mart who helped me out with some paint! That was very nice of you!

This story is now in the November  'Art Calendar magazine' sold at Barnes and Noble!