What began as a classroom vision at Wegienka Elementary has become reality. The massive, student-painted portraits of Civil Rights icons - originally filling the halls of the school - have been moved to the Board of Education office, where they now serve as a vibrant reminder of the power of student voice and artistic expression.
Under the guidance of art teacher Leigh Ann Greene, these 3-5’ acrylic-on-canvas banners were designed to be more than just decorations. They are a "living gallery" intended to grow every year, deepening the community’s connection to Black history through the eyes of its youngest citizens.
The project’s physical scale is matched only by the heart put into its creation. To ensure these pieces could withstand the test of time, Mrs. Greene’s sister hand-sewed the edges of the canvas and created custom pockets for hanging.
Mrs. Greene provided the professional line work and mixed a custom palette of colors, but the "soul" of the pieces came from the students. Using a "living coloring book" approach, Wildcats from every grade level were invited to add their brushstrokes to the inaugural subjects: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and John Lewis.
The most moving part of the process wasn't the painting itself, but the dialogue that preceded it.
"Before we started, I shared the vision with students and we discussed each of our subjects," Mrs. Greene said. "I was thrilled that the students really took the lead in sharing their stories."
This wasn't just an art lesson; it was a leadership lesson. The students took ownership of the history, and that pride is visible in every inch of the finished work.
Principal Michelle Briegel sees the display as a testament to the talent within Wegienka’s walls.
"Mrs. Greene continues to find powerful opportunities for our Wildcats to experience the arts," says Principal Briegel. "The portraits our students painted are incredible and serve as an inspiring way to honor the importance of Black History Month. It is our intention to continue growing the gallery each year, adding new portraits that showcase our students’ creativity."
By moving these works to the Board of Education, the message is clear: the history our students learn and the art they create is a vital part of our district’s identity. As new portraits are added each year, this gallery will continue to tell a story of progress, one brushstroke at a time.