Pavement murals designed by High Rock students and funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, Needham Education Foundation and Needham Council for Arts and Culture now decorate recreational spaces outside the school building.
Sixth graders began by learning about public art and the basics of mural design through a series of public art workshops. Students were then encouraged to design site-specific pavement murals, three of which now color the blacktop around High Rock.
Using long-lasting paints often found in street projects, mixed with non-slip substances to create a safer surface, students encircled the basketball hoops with a sun and moon. Shades of green and blue pattern a crosswalk, and the center of High Rock’s bus turnaround loop features a labyrinth — which public art administrator and High Rock mom Charly Nanda says is distinct from a maze in that there are no dead ends but a winding path always providing a way through. This particular artpiece, said Nanda, is intended to be used creatively by High Rock teachers and staff as a centering spot for students.
Local muralist and art therapist Tova Speter shared her public art experience with students during the design phase and contributed her painting expertise to bring the designs to life. The murals were completed with the help of students and their families over the course of multiple work days and community “Paint Jams”.
Speter said the murals are intended to enliven existing recreational spaces, making them more inviting and relatable for students.
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