At Shrub Oak International School, creativity takes center stage every season, and this spring our Art Club has embarked on a vibrant and collaborative group project that celebrates both individual expression and collective unity. In celebration of the season, students and staff are working together on a large-scale mural that brings the colors and textures of spring to life through the unique artistic voices of our students. The project is built around the theme of flowers, with each student creating a textured floral painting on a square canvas. Once completed, these individual pieces will be assembled into a single, striking mural that reflects not only the season, but the joy of working together toward a shared goal.
Texture painting offers our students a rich sensory experience, making it an ideal medium for artists of all abilities. By layering paint, adding materials, and experimenting with tools, students are able to explore tactile expression in a way that stimulates both creativity and motor development. This hands-on approach aligns with our transdisciplinary model, which integrates therapeutic, academic, and creative instruction in ways that support the whole student. For many of our students, engaging in art is not only a form of communication, but also a powerful tool for emotional regulation, fine motor development, and social connection.
As each student focuses on designing a flower for their square, they are encouraged to explore color theory, symmetry, shape, and texture in a way that feels authentic to their own style. Some students have chosen to sculpt petals from thick layers of paint, while others are using brushes, sponges, and even their fingers to create dynamic floral patterns. Every flower is different, but each one plays an essential role in the final mural. When assembled, these squares will form a cohesive garden of painted blossoms—each bloom a testament to the individuality and imagination of the student who created it.
Group projects like this mural allow us to promote collaboration in an environment that respects each student’s pace, preferences, and strengths. The Art Club meets weekly, and students look forward to the time set aside for experimentation, reflection, and expression. The sense of pride and accomplishment that comes from seeing their work displayed in a shared masterpiece fosters both confidence and community. As the mural comes together, students see in real time how their unique contributions add beauty and value to a collective whole.
Art continues to play an essential role in the student experience at Shrub Oak International School, offering a space for personal expression, sensory engagement, and social interaction. This spring mural project is a clear example of how we use art not just as a class, but as a means of connection, empowerment, and joy. We look forward to displaying the finished piece prominently on campus and on our Instagram —an ever-blooming reminder of what we can create when we work together.
