VASJ students participated in "Mural My Neighborhood" program

During the summer, two of VASJ’s exceptional artists, Olivia Biondo and Derek Witcher, participated in the "Mural My Neighborhood" program and contributed to the painting of two beautiful murals in North Collinwood. Olivia and Derek, both juniors, underwent interviews and had to show examples of their work before they were accepted into "Mural My Neighborhood," a program of Cleveland’s Bureau of Cultural Arts. “I like painting and art so I thought it would be fun and a chance to meet other kids in my neighborhood who enjoy art as well,” Olivia explained.

After spending eight weeks in the classroom learning about color schemes, scratchboard, shading, air brushing and painting, the group of young artists began painting the Euclid Beach Park mural located at the Lake Shore Florist on Lake Shore Boulevard. Derek contributed to one of the seagulls and the Euclid Beach Park letters while Olivia helped trace many of the images and worked on the trees and pillars. Once the Lake Shore Florist mural was complete, the group began painting the second mural located at the Helping Hands Daycare on E 185th Street. Olivia contributed to the purple and yellow flowers located on the mural, while Derek focused on the blue flower and the pizza.

A member of VASJ’s art club, Derek enjoyed the experience of being around other young artists. “It brought me out of my comfort zone of my other art. It was a good opportunity to do something for the community and the chance to do something that everyone will see,” Derek said of the experience.

We encourage you to look for these murals as you’re driving on E. 185th Street and Lake Shore Boulevard!