Unleashing Creativity and Hope
A Heartwarming Mural Project with BLAST & Holy Spirit SPS
Inspiring a Culture of Inclusivity Through Art
Have you ever witnessed the transformative power of art? This past year, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the BLAST Arts-in-Education Residency, a programme that brings professional artists like myself into schools to collaborate with students on unique projects.
This residency took place at Holy Spirit SPS Dublin, a senior co-educational school known for its commitment to respect and inclusivity. The school had recently opened a new building for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and I was invited to create with the students, a special mural to celebrate this exciting addition.
Soaring with Imagination: The Symbolism of Hot Air Balloons
After discussions with the principal, teachers and the students, we decided on a mural featuring hot air balloons. These playful objects hold a special place in our hearts – they represent freedom, adventure, and the ability to rise above challenges. This powerful symbolism resonated deeply with the students, many of whom face obstacles in their daily lives. Painting these balloons became a metaphor for transcending difficulties and embracing creativity with joy.
Setting the Stage for Creativity
Before the big painting day, we got things ready. The designated wall received a base coat of a soft and restful looking blue sky, and outlines of the balloons were sketched to create a clear workspace for the students. Artificial grass was glued to the wall and abstract mountains were painted, creating the illusion of rolling fields and distant hills.
Witnessing the Magic Unfold
The enthusiasm of the children throughout the project was truly heartwarming. Volunteers and staff played a crucial role, providing guidance and support while encouraging the students to express themselves freely. The collaborative spirit was infectious!
A Day Filled with Colour and Joy
Armed with brushes and vibrant paints, the children brought the mural to life. They filled the balloon outlines with their own unique styles and colours, transforming the wall into a masterpiece of collective creativity.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, the hot air balloon mural stands tall, a testament to the power of art to heal, inspire, and bring people together. This journey of self-expression and absolute fun, mirrored the symbolic ascent of the balloons themselves. The mural not only enhances the space but also serves as a permanent reminder of the boundless potential and joy that resides within every child. It’s a visual representation of hope, freedom, and the uplifting power of community.
A testimonial of joy!
When the mural was completed, I was so delighted to receive a very thoughful gift from the children. They had created their own version of a hot air ballon with their fingerprints, and my name affixed to the basket below, framed in a lovely silver frame.
To this day, I smile when I pass the picture in my studio, I think of all the children who participated in this project. It is a treasured gift presented to me with a note from the very supportive and impressive Principal Elma Young.
“It has been an absolute pleasure having you as an artist in residence in Holy Spirit Senior Primary School. We now have a beautiful piece of art forevermore in our school and memories that will last a lifeime for our children. Thank you! Elma”
My thanks to:
and of course to all the great students who participated in this project.
Thanks for the memories!
In order to comply with school regulations, some of the images in this blog including any pictures of children, were open sourced or generated with AI. To see the children from Holy Spirit SPS, you can refer to the Holy Spirit SPS twitter page here
