'Out of this world' mural at St Mary’s NS

By Rebekah O'Reilly

A bright and colourful new mural at St Mary’s is bringing a touch of imagination to the school, with Ukrainian artist Alina Vorobiova inviting pupils to play a direct role in its creation.

Alina was approached by the school administration to design something colourful that would appeal to the children. After producing several sketches, the school selected its favourite design.

The idea of adding aliens emerged during the creative process, with Alina and the teachers deciding to turn the idea into an opportunity for pupils to get involved.

Teachers from second and third class organised a competition challenging the children to design their own aliens.

“Without any limits to their imagination, the children drew what they liked most,” Alina said.

The teacher and artist then selected six of the designs they felt would work best with the mural. Alina incorporated the winning alien characters into the finished artwork.

For the artist, the project was a first.

“This was my first experience with such an experiment, and I really enjoyed it,” she said. “The children were able to feel like they were part of something important.”

She said the pupils were enthusiastic about taking part and enjoyed seeing their ideas become part of a permanent piece of art at their school.

Alina now endeavours to take part in similar collaborative projects in the future.

“It doesn't have to be with kids, but any project where you can involve other people in the process sounds really cool and unique,” she said. “I feel like it could bring us all a little closer together.”

The project proved particularly meaningful for the Ukrainian artist, who described the experience as “very heartwarming”.

As a final gesture of appreciation, the children created a small thank-you card for her.