From the first pictographs etched on cave walls, to a “tag” marked on a subway train, to complex murals; graffiti has evolved into a true form of art. Graffiti images are often accompanied by messages that convey bold statements.
Merrill High School’s Art Department is joining this movement and making their own bold statement by tagging the walls of MHS with the first piece of graffiti art to add to the permanent mural collection. Four Merrill High School Art students are spending one week of their summer vacation to paint an original graffiti mural designed by senior, Joseph Ladewig. Joseph is collaborating with fellow MHS students Serena Helman, Katie Nelson and Shailee Myers to paint the 6×25-foot mural. The finished graffiti tag will represent more than 200 hours of work that the students have donated to the cause.
What is the message of their painting? To empower all individual students to be their own person, yet come together in the shared bond of being Bluejay Proud. In Ladewig’s own words, “I wanted a positive message. I wanted everyone to be able to relate to one of the Bluejays in the painting, and know that we are all together no matter who you are.”
There will be an Open House and Art Show this winter where co
mmunity members will be invited into the high school to view the finished mural as well as other student exhibits.