Have students watch the video How to Paint a Mural and discuss their mural ideas with those stated by the artist. Pass out a brainstorm planning page for each group to share ideas. Review responses and vote on a proposed main message for the mural. Students should study and select possible sites, then gain permission for use of any location from proper authorities either by writing a letter or asking the teacher to be the representative of the class.

Have students develop background research of their selected main message to determine what visual images should be included in the design.

Ask each student to draw a sketch for a proposed design. Ask students to work in groups to select their top choice designs and share them with the class. Narrow the choice to the top three, then choose one together. Debate and refine the original proposal or main idea and discuss any adjustments that are to be made. Determine completed measurements. Photocopy the selected design so each student has a copy. Have them make a grid on the page and transfer the image to enlarge it. Next, list and itemize supplies, and gain approval for funding and design.

Arrange for professional advice and/or speakers and assistants with the project. Purchase materials and plan a schedule for completion.

Unveil the mural with a display that includes sketches, drawings, and photographs of the entire process. Share the display with the entire school and community with local press coverage. At the opening, ask students to share reflections on the learning they gained from the unit.

Divide students into five groups and assign each group one of the Take 5 Mural prints. Ask students: What materials and methods did the artist use?
What steps were taken by the artist to bring the mural/public art from idea to finished artwork?

Share responses with the entire class and create a master list of steps in sequential order.

Example:

1) brainstorm ideas and decide on main message,

2) select possible sites and determine measurements of proposed artwork,

3) decide if the mural will be temporary or permanent,

4) gain permission for use of location,

5) develop background research of intended main message or meaning,

6) draw initial designs,

7) debate and refine proposal,

8) make adjustments to design,

9) gain approval for design and funding,

10)
arrange for professional advice and/or assistants,

11) purchase supplies and materials needed,

12) plan schedule for completion,

13) enlarge chosen design and transfer it to the wall or other surface,

14) paint, assemble, or sculpt the mural, and

15) unveil the finished work with a dedication ceremony.

Display list of sequential steps

To what level (mastery, satisfactory, novice) did students:

• demonstrate how murals and other public artworks instruct and inform viewers, supporting their interpretations with compelling evidence?

• draw upon the universal experience of public art to express meaning through participation in the design and creation of a mural?

Rebecca Martin, NTIEVA Mento, and Kelly Smith, Oakhurst Elementary, FortWorth, Texas