Every day, Jackson-Reed students rush through the hallways with their eyes locked on their phones. However, if you take a moment to look up and you will see a vibrant world of art decorating the walls. There’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, tucked away near the art classrooms, where breathtaking student-made art comes to life.
The student-made artwork on display in this gallery is a part of the Drawing and Painting A, Pen and Watercolor Contrast Paintings, taught by instructor Zalika Perkins. In this installation, the walls come alive with uniquely crafted paintings that open a window into the world of animals, sea creatures, and even mythical beings. The talented use of watercolor and ink enlivens these paintings by creating vibrant ethereal backgrounds, each having unique designs that transport the viewer into another world. These paintings are more than just an installation, but a bold expression of creativity from our Jackson-Reed student body. The unique blend of animals, the ocean, and fantasy elements illustrates the diverse imaginations and talents that thrive in this corner of the school. For those who walk past the art rooms in the basement, we strongly encourage you to pause and truly look at this display made by our fellow students.
Beyond this tucked-away gallery, Jackson-Reed halls are homes to murals that add purpose and meaning to our school. The Black Lives Matter mural featured in the first-floor hallway stands out particularly. The mural reflects our school’s dedication to diversity and inclusion and is not just a piece of art that enhances the hallway, but a call for reflection and change. It invites every student who walks past to think about the issue it represents. “I think the art in the hallway shows that the school systematically cares about issues and strives to make a change in our school environment,” said sophomore Mateo Jacobson.
Next time you are walking through the halls, take time to look up and admire the artwork around you. The art is not just a decoration, but an expression of creativity from our Jackson-Reed student body.
