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Legacy

KIPP Schools

KIPP Tech Valley Middle School - Albany, NY

January 2024

Previous Project
Overview

One of my greatest creations to date is a photorealistic mural of legendary Black icons, wrapping top to bottom in a middle school stairwell. The school wanted to embrace the theme of "passing the torch," proposing the question, “What will be your legacy?” The pairing of these figures highlights changemakers of color who paved the way for future generations to leave their mark on history and culture. The mural’s purpose is to educate students on the character and accomplishments of these trailblazers, inspiring them to chase their own dreams. The icons were intentionally made larger than life, yet at eye level, to remind students that greatness is always within reach. As you walk up the first set of steps you are met with a colorful and abundant display of love affirmations to complement the quote in the middle of the stairwell left by Principal Dr. Darryl White, “If nobody’s told you they love you today, we do.” A vibrant whirlwind of confetti guides you up the second stairwell to reinforce the notion that we are here to celebrate each other and our accomplishments. A playful and powerful line of text floats amongst the clouds as the chord to Beyonce's microphone. Her lyrics read “ I know the world, and I know who I am, it’s bout’ time I show it.” As you walk closer, the deep blue hues of Obama's suit jacket reveal a subtle statement repetitiously embedded within the shading to represent each youth’s voice; YES WE CAN. A final message for the students left by myself hidden under the glare of light on the face of his watch: “Good things take time, great things take love, timeless things take soul.”

Post Results

•Used for promotional advertisements and school photos
•Inspires students to achieve big dreams
•Students feel seen and empowered

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