The longer you look, the more you might notice in the patterns of the newly painted mural on an outside wall of Donahue School.
A colorful abstract of shapes and curves, the mural was much anticipated by Donahue staff and students. For more than a year, art teacher Lora Talbot knew she wanted her students to be able to participate in painting a large-scale mural. She coordinated with local artist Kim Carlino to brainstorm what might be possible.
Thanks to funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council STARS Residency Grant, a program that sends artists to schools, Ms. Carlino was able to design and lead the implementation of the “Abstract Welcome” mural. The project was further funded by HPS as part of the district’s commitment to create joyful schools. With coordination from Ms. Talbot and Principal Marc Swygart, supplies were provided so that students could pick up a paintbrush and contribute to the mural themselves. Students filled in the lower sections they could reach while Ms. Talbot and Ms. Carlino painted the higher sections on ladders. Students learned from Ms. Carlino directly as she explained the process of creating a large-scale piece.
“I love abstraction, and I believe that the love of color is pretty universal,” says Ms. Carlino. “I wanted to create a colorful mural that was vibrant and had a feeling of expansion that would welcome each student when they arrived at school. The colors I chose are inspired from nature, Puerto Rican culture, and the school mascot, the dolphin.” Also drawing inspiration from geometry, the mural’s large, vibrant shapes are intended to spark a sense of excitement for the students who pass by it each day.
The mural was officially completed on Tuesday, June 11, and can be seen on the front of Donahue School at 210 Whiting Farms Rd.