EMERALD Secondary College students will return to a colourful gym this year, after its Year 9 cohort created a dynamic mural for its entrance.
The bright mural showing basketballers running and jumping to score goals was made as part of Cardinia Shire Council’s Youth Services.
Cardinia Shire Council’s Youth Recreation officer Leonie Olsen said Emerald Secondary College vice principal Aaron Smith approached the Youth Services team to develop a program with the students.
“The mural took two terms to complete and looks fantastic,” she said.
“The young people were involved in all decision making for the project.
‘They decided it would give a more professional finish if they rendered the wall prior to commencing their art work although this added considerable hours to the project it was worth it for the positive impact on the final product.
The students worked alongside professional artist Tara Kingston and learnt a variety of art forms including stencilling, design elements and principles, colour theory and placement and a variety of painting techniques.
The program also provided the young people with skills in leadership, advocacy and project management.
The mural was officially recognised at a certificate presentation and barbecue in mid December.