Norwalk School Unveils New Mural In Celebration Of Earth Day

NORWALK, CT — A new community mural created by a Norwalk artist was unveiled Wednesday afternoon at Kendall College and Career Academy in celebration of Earth Day.

The mural, created in partnership with Keep America Beautiful and sponsored by PaintCare, was designed and painted by local artist 5ivefingaz using leftover paint collected through PaintCare's recycling program, according to additional press materials provided by Norwalk Public Schools and PaintCare.

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Jennifer Sweeters, the elementary school's principal, said the Kendall community was "truly honored and excited" to be selected as recipients of the mural.

"This opportunity has meant so much to our entire school community," Sweeters said. "What makes it even more special is that way that [5ivefingaz] has collaborated with our staff and students throughout the process. It wasn't just about creating art, it was about telling our story."

According to Norwalk Public Schools, the project brings together students, local organizations and the community, with design inspiration drawn from student input.

"The mural beautifully captures who we are as a school," Sweeters said. "It reflects how our students grow into global citizens nurtured by the love, support and dedication they experience every day here at Kendall College and Career Academy. It also represents the many opportunities our students have to explore their passions, develop their skills and prepare for their futures, whether that path leads them to college, careers or the workforce."

The mural was unveiled inside the school due to the weather, however Sweeters said it will soon be placed outside the building.

According to the district, the mural will be located on an exterior wall visible from Fillow Street and is intended to beautify the area while strengthening community connection through public art.

"This mural will serve as a long symbol of pride, inspiration and possibility for everyone who walks through our doors," Sweeters said.

Superintendent Alexandra Estrella highlighted the mural's connection to Earth Day.

"This [mural] is especially meaningful because it shows our students that something old can become something new and beautiful," Estrella said, "and that taking care of our environment can inspire creativity and pride."

5ivefingaz, an artist with Art Monster Studio, explained his thought process while creating the mural was to marry nature and technology and show how they can coexist.

"This piece is here to remind students that the future isn't about choosing between nature or technology," 5ivefingaz said, "it's about using technology to protect, enhance and coexist with the natural world."

April Wennerstrom, senior director of operations for Keep America Beautiful, Board of Education member Ashley Gulyas and Brett Rogers, Paint Care's vice president of communications, also shared remarks during the event.

"I hope this mural brightens the school and neighborhood for years to come," Estrella said, "and serves as a daily reminder of the importance of sustainability, creativity and caring for our environment and the world."