The Recipe of Me

A pot of soup simmers on an open-air cook top. A bunch of bananas grow within arms’ reach. Vibrant tropical flowers hang from vines, along with two pitchers magically pouring liquid into the soup. Look closer and find a fire alarm, a boom box and initials carved into tree limbs.

These are some of the evocative elements of The Recipe of Me, a mural created by Ossining High School students, and supported by a grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. The mural’s unveiling was celebrated by the school community on June 12.

"The Recipe of Me mural is so much more than paint on a wall—it is a living celebration of student voice, identity and self-expression at OHS,” said Dr. Dixelia Lopez, Ossining Schools’ Director of Mental and Behavioral Health. “By exploring the unique cultures, values and dreams that shape who we are, our students have woven their personal stories into a collaborative masterpiece.”

The "recipe" was months in the making.

Approximately 30 students across three classes, led by Ms. Sibiski, Ms. Tovar and Ms. Skrelja, began the interdisciplinary mural journey in November 2025 by writing, discussing and drawing the experiences, cultures, strengths, relationships and aspirations that shape who they are.

An important pivot in the project was when students noted that foods are not prepared the same way across all cultures. This observation sparked a focus on honoring their different cultural traditions surrounding food, preparation and community.

Vegetation and plant life of students’ cultures of origin are featured throughout the mural, symbolizing growth, resilience and connection. Just as seeds can travel and flourish in new places, students recognized how their cultures, histories and experiences continue to grow and enrich the community around them.

At the school-wide celebration unveiling the new mural, the students said that they hope their peers learn about different cultures and traditions and appreciate the beauty found in the diversity of their community. They also noted the significance of including the initials of participating students, ensuring that those who contributed leave a lasting mark on the school.

“The mural stands as a powerful visual reminder that every single student brings essential ingredients to our community,” said Dr. Lopez, “and that when we share our perspectives, we create a beautiful, collective portrait of belonging, resilience and O-Pride."