Removal Of Wall For Dedham MS Mural Draws Criticism On Social Media

DEDHAM, MA — The removal of boards for a mural at Dedham Middle School has residents on social media wonder why the canvas for an art project is gone.

The 150-foot wall was recently removed. Dedham School Committee Chairperson Maryanne Briggs said in a statement that while they were enthused about the project, items such as how and where the mural would be created were not ironed out.

"As a result, we as a committee lost a critical opportunity to engage the neighborhood around the middle school and other town officials before the boards for the mural went up on the Whiting Avenue fence. This led to unnecessary confusion among some neighbors and some town officials," Briggs wrote.

The plan was to start painting on the same day as graduation at the high school, something the community would have never supported, Briggs said. Instead, Superintendent Michael Welch made the decision last Friday to temporarily remove the boards until the school department could decide the best time and space for the mural to be painted.

"Clearly, it was necessary to take a step back and make sure all details related to the mural were ironed out so our students would be free to complete what they have been working towards - creating a work of public art for all to enjoy - in a way that would for all."

On Facebook, some residents placed the blame on Selectman Dennis Guilfoyle, accusing him of attempting to influenced the school district to remove the boards. The selectman denied the charge.

In a statement on his campaign Facebook page, Guilfoyle said he received calls from residents on Whiting Avenue and Mt. Vernon Street about the wall and when he attempted to find answers from town officials, no one seemed to know what he was talking about. He said his last conversation about the wall was when he asked the town manager if the mural was going to be up for Flag Day.

"At no time did I put a stop to the DMS students’ art installation," he said.

Briggs also said Guilfoyle had nothing to do with the wall's removal.

The mural is expected to remain at the middle school on a different part of the property.

Below is Briggs' full statement:

Image: File Photo