School: Grandview High School
Class: Graphic Design
Instructor: Tessa Bulger
Client: Belvidere Elementary School
Problem: How can artwork in a school setting inspire joy, creativity, and a sense of community for students and staff? How can we implement our findings at Belvidere Elementary School?
Summary
In this collaborative art and design project, students were commissioned to create mural artwork for the hallways of Belvidere Elementary School. Guided by a design brief from Principal Dr. Dane, the goal was to develop visuals that would brighten the school environment and spark inspiration and joy among students and staff. Midway through the project, students received professional feedback from Katelyn Betz, a graphic designer from KCPL, which helped refine their work. A committee of staff, students, and families reviewed the designs, narrowing them down to a top ten, then a top five after students made requested revisions. Ultimately, three designs have been selected, printed at 3ft x 3ft, and permanently displayed in the school.
Takeaways
Students did a great job overall. I was especially proud of how the top 10 finalists responded to the changes requested and how quickly they implemented those changes. As an artist and art teacher, I was surprised at the designs that were chosen by the school.
Advice
Give students as much info up front as you can. And as the client communicates with you, swiftly communicate with students. Doing that in a timely manner helped me feel more organized and not get overwhelmed. And let students take the project in their own direction. The client might like those ideas best.
Standards/Learning Targets
Collaborate effectively with peers and clients to understand and meet project goals. Develop design solutions for a real-world client. Meet project deadlines and manage time throughout the project. Evaluate feedback and revise work accordingly.