SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 83 (NORTH OKANAGAN-SHUSWAP)
New Art at Pleasant Valley Secondary School

There's a new piece of art work adorning the wall at the Pleasant Valley Secondary School's commons area!

Created by Grade 12 student Jeremiah Vergara, the brightly coloured mural depicts PVSS' bright red and black school colours along with the relatively new mascot (2021) the Red Tailed Hawk. Principal Steve Drapala shared that the District's Operations Department recently installed the mural on the wall. "We are now proudly displaying it in our commons area where it can be enjoyed by all the students and visitors to the school."

Jeremiah started attending PVSS last year, and during his spare blocks, and as part of his program, started working on the mural. The soft-spoken young artist said it took quite a while to come up with the idea and then to bring it to fruition. He first sketched it freehand. Teacher Librarian Sandra Treat oversaw the project and helped Jeremiah out . "She made sure my lines were straight," he smiled. "I didn't have a ruler."

They then projected the drawing onto a four by eight board, and Jeremiah transferred it to the larger format. He explained he used a Sharpie pen to outline the painting and give it definition.

Since the installation, Jeremiah said a number of teachers and some friends have complimented him on the art work. He added that it will be really nice to have a piece of his work on display at the school after he's graduated.

Jeremiah shared that he has always had a passion for art, with his brother Silas being a significant influence and support. While he particularly enjoys anime and animation, he also explores realistic drawings. Jeremiah is considering a career in the arts, potentially in 2D animation, and is exploring the option of taking college courses to pursue this path.