The creativity is flowing and the collaboration is on point in the art room at McKenna Elementary School. Students have been working on large murals inspired by artist Keith Haring.
During their visits to Melanie Sabia’s art room, children in grades 2-5 are working in groups on large art creations. The simulated murals are being made with paint sticks on 3-foot by 7-foot pieces of white paper. When all are completed, the masterpieces will hang around the school.
Students learned about Haring’s animated pop art style and message. He is the designer of the Best Buddies logo and known for the quote, “Art is for everybody.” His artwork emphasizes inclusion and kindness and McKenna’s young artists teamed up to create murals that reflect these values.
Ms. Sabia said that the project emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration. Each mural takes about three art classes to create and after the pieces are finished, students take a museum walk around the room to see everyone’s work.