Los Altos High School unveils collaborative student mural project with artist Cameron Moberg

Los Altos High School is set to enhance its campus environment with a vibrant new mural, thanks to the collaborative efforts of students and local artist Cameron Moberg. During the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District's recent board meeting, VAPA department coordinator Jessica Hayes presented the mural project, which aims to make art more visible and accessible to all students.

The initiative was inspired by a community mural project conducted by Arts Los Altos in February 2023. To ensure the mural reflected the desires of the student body, the team conducted surveys to gather input on themes and designs. A total of 60 students participated in the project, divided into two cohorts that met during ACT sessions throughout the second semester. Each cohort engaged in six sessions with Moberg, learning various techniques from stencil creation to spray painting.

Funding for the mural came from Prop 28, which supports arts education in schools. The project not only provided students with hands-on experience in mural creation but also fostered a sense of community and pride. Students expressed their excitement about the opportunity to collaborate with a professional artist and create a lasting piece of art for their school.

The mural's completion was celebrated with a special event where students decorated tote bags and T-shirts featuring their designs. Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the mural adds color and cheer to the campus atmosphere.

In addition to the mural project, the board meeting featured an update from Freestyle Academy, highlighting the school's creative programs and recent achievements, including a film nominated for a state festival. The academy continues to invite industry professionals to speak with students, enhancing their learning experience and providing valuable insights into various creative fields.

As the district looks to the future, both the mural project and Freestyle Academy's initiatives underscore a commitment to enriching student experiences through the arts, fostering creativity, and building community connections.