Lai, Richard. “Front Gate Mural.” 2021. JPG file.
One of the many core aspects of elementary schools is the art program. Not only is it crucial to the curriculum, it brings out the creative freedom in children. Whether it’s through the classroom or outdoors, the influence and culture of arts leave a lasting impact on a developing mind.
Across many schools in Vancouver, murals and public art can be seen in the main entrances. Before a school bell rings to signify the start of a school day, the students are wandering about in the front gate of the school, unsure what to do. Murals provide a colourful and engaging breath of fresh air for students to passively admire. In some cases, students may even draw comparisons to other forms of art they’re experienced and create a connection.
Lai, Richard. “Chaffey-Burke Mural.” 2021. JPG file.
This early onset to instill the beauty of artwork into the flourishing mind of early grade-school students is invaluable. Although the art curriculum in widely known to be an “easy letter grade class,” its importance for exploring creativity is often overlooked.
Not only are murals in school entrances, some are also displayed on walls adjacent to playgrounds. They can invoke a different feeling depending on the colour palette of the mural. A common one to use is blue, which helps aid peer monitors de-escalate conflicts on the playground. The warm calming atmosphere of a mural based around the blue palette accommodates the angsty and unpredictable attributes of young students.
Many elementary schools utilize bake sales and fundraisers to commission these great works of art, but some actually incorporate their art curriculum into the murals. I believe having students actively take part in drawing and participating in such a monumental piece of the school is imperative to developing artistic talent.
Lai, Richard. “Playground Mural.” 2021. JPG file.
These murals may not be the highest form of art as seen in art galleries and such, but its place in elementary schools cultivate a form of education that no other class can provide.