RAINBOW SCHOOLS
Cambrian College students create mural for Lockerby Composite School

The mural Connection is the work of students and faculty in Cambrian's Design and Visual Arts program, with additional participation from students in Graphic Design. They worked under the supervision of Johanna Westby, a professor in the Design and Visual Arts program.

"We are so thrilled to present this large-scale mural in partnership between Cambrian College and Lockerby Composite School," says Johanna Westby. "The project is a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain real-world experience in public art, while simultaneously providing an opportunity to create a positive impact in the community."

It took the team of students and faculty members approximately 200 hours to complete the mural.

The images in the mural symbolize the connection between all things. For example, the hummingbirds symbolize the process of pollination or bringing life from one plant to another. Images depicting the transfer of information between students symbolizes the sharing of knowledge and the connection that creates.

"On behalf of Rainbow District School Board, I would like to thank Cambrian College for partnering with Lockerby Composite School to turn another blank canvas into a colourful work of art," says Board Chair Bob Clement. "The concept of connections is meaningful on many levels, making it an ideal theme for this piece."

"We extend our gratitude to Johanna Westby and the talented students at Cambrian College for brightening our cafeteria by bringing this mural to life," says Principal Craig Runciman. "Our cafeteria is a gathering place where students and staff connect. The mural has made the space that much more vibrant. It has enhanced the school and the school culture."

The installation of the mural Connection brings to 10 the number of public artworks created so far by Westby, fellow faculty and students.

You can see those works of art throughout the city including at Tom Davies Square (city hall), Health Sciences North, Science North, YMCA, Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School and Cambrian College.

To learn more about Cambrian College's Art and Design programs or the other 90 programs the college offers, visit: www.cambriancollege.ca.

Faculty and students at Cambrian College have created a mural called Connection for Lockerby Composite School. Attending the unveiling on June 2, 2023 are, from left, Rainbow District School Board Director of Education Bruce Bourget; Board Chair Bob Clement; Professor in Design and Visual Arts at Cambrian College Johanna Westby; Cambrian students and artists Ash Sokolowicz, Arlo Bellemare and Lümen; Lockerby Composite School Art Teacher Sarah Benton; Trustee Doreen Dewar; and Lockerby Composite School Principal Craig Runciman.