Honoring Our School Community with a Tactile Mural
Two artists have lent their talents to brighten up the Children’s Development Center (CDC) with a series of murals honoring the therapeutic day school’s commitment to the respect and understanding of every person’s unique qualities. Along with a piece by Jill Wells, this artwork in the school’s main hallway is a reminder that the acceptance of others is the key to the community.
Growth –
The mural depicts how many students in the Children’s Development Center, most of whom have severe to profound disabilities, may feel locked inside themselves, unable to express their needs and desires. Yet, with the right support, care and love (like that provided by our school), they can break out of that feeling and be more comfortable, free and happy.
Pride –
The second painting depicts a proud peacock as a symbol of children learning to love and embrace who they are. When one encounters a peacock with its feathers down, it simply looks like another ordinary fowl. But when the bird shows its plumage, it is a magnificent sight to behold, much like the students in the school. Meanwhile, other birds in the mural reflect the diversity of the school’s population. The large balls, generously donated by artist Michael Moore, offer students a tactile experience.
Unity –
The final painting celebrates all of the individuals that comprise the CDC community. Each little monster in the painting corresponds to the disabilities of the students in the school: physical, autism spectrum disorder, blind/visually impaired, deaf and hard of hearing, and multiple disabilities.
Representation Matters –
Kindly donated by Dr. Andrew Barrer, this piece by artist Jill Wells brings the murals all together. Spelling out in Braille, “Representation Matters,” it shows that “You can’t be a united community if you leave out kids with disabilities,” says Senior Vice President of Educational Services Jordan Owens.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
ELLOO – (“Growth”, “Unity”) worked as an agent in our North Shore Customer Care Center to support herself as she pursued her art career. Using diverse materials, Elloo has created a fantastic realm called, “Elloos World,” populated with vibrantly colored whimsical creatures who, she says, “just want to be happy and enjoy the sweet life.”
Through her art, Elloo aims to evoke feelings of love, joy, and delight. She wants people to experience a sense of connectedness, ease, and appreciation when looking at her artwork.
Mario Rodriguez and Nino Rodriguez – (“Pride”) are a father and son team who have worked on murals and art projects throughout the city (including The Chicago Lighthouse’s “Lighthouses on the Mag Mile” public art display in 2018). Mario, who has autism spectrum disorder, was previously employed at The Lighthouse, and the team was thrilled to have an interactive piece in the building.
Mario’s signature is putting animals in art (thus, the birds) to express himself. “He loves working with animals, and it gives people a kick,” says Nino, who also produces graffiti under the nome d’art Tsel One). “It’s always a pleasure working with him and seeing his work come alive.”
