A vision of identity and community
This year the Kellman community wanted to find creative ways to amplify the voices of our students.
With that in mind, the school partnered with acclaimed Chicago visual artist Rhonda Gray. Over the course of nine months, students explored art styles such as Afro futurism and gave voice to what they thought were their unique super powers through visual art pieces. These pieces then got placed within an overall mural design, which is being hand painted on the walls of the school by Miss Gray, the students themselves, staff/admin and and even a few parents!
Rhonda has served as a career inspiration for students this year. Not only is she an acclaimed painter whose work has been seen both throughout the United States and internationally, her social justice minded murals grace the walls of Chicago public schools throughout the city.
This mural will live on the first floor of the Kellman building for years to come and leaves a visual legacy highlighting the magic of what happens when young people step into their power.
Participating students included Kejuan Boose, Chayna Dixon, Robert Grillier, Nyomie Hamilton, Lakenzi Miller, Gennett Bowers-Roach, Amber Scott, Ahkeylist Simmons, & Tevence Smith.
After Amber Scott and Tevence Smith interviewed Rhonda about her artistic career journey, she got the chance to interview them about their own career aspirations. Check out the interview in the video adjacent!