A new masterpiece now hangs at Wegienka Elementary School, showcasing both artistic creativity and the school’s spirit of kindness and connection. Under the guidance of art teacher LeighAnn Greene, students collaborated on a stunning legacy art piece inspired by the book The Boy with Flowers in His Hair by Jarvis. This newly completed artwork, which joins three existing legacy pieces in Wegienka’s permanent art collection, reflects the school’s commitment to fostering unity through visual storytelling.
At the start of the school year, Wegienka students read The Boy with Flowers in His Hair and engaged in thoughtful discussions about friendship, compassion, and the importance of supporting one another. Inspired by the book’s striking illustrations, students then created sculptural paper flowers using dust jackets from discarded library books, repurposing materials in a meaningful and sustainable way. The project became a schoolwide effort, with different grade levels learning various cutting, folding, and gluing techniques to craft unique flowers for the piece.
A crucial component of the project came from the generosity of community members. After the school reached out for help, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Murphy, grandparents of Wegienka students, stepped forward to build a custom wooden shadow box frame to house the artwork. Their contribution not only provided a beautiful and lasting display but also reinforced the sense of community involvement in the school’s artistic traditions.
Principal Michelle Briegel emphasizes the significance of legacy art projects at Wegienka. “Legacy pieces remind students that they are a valued part of our school community,” she said. “These artworks serve as a visual history, showing the creativity of past students and inspiring future generations.”
Greene shares a similar sentiment, believing that art is a powerful tool for connection. “This project, like our Pocket Smile Project, focuses on tangible ways to support each other through acts of kindness. Visual art becomes the vehicle for caring and connection,” she said. “I want students to see their work as museum-worthy. A school gallery filled with their contributions sends a powerful message about the importance of what we do in the art studio.”
Now fully completed and displayed in its handcrafted frame, the artwork serves as a lasting symbol of creativity and compassion. A commemorative plaque will be added to highlight the significance of the piece.
As students walk by the new artwork in the years to come, Briegel hopes they will recognize that, just like each flower in the collage, they are an important part of something greater. With its message of kindness and community, this latest addition to Wegienka’s legacy art collection is sure to leave a lasting impact on students, staff, and visitors alike.
