Back in 2022, Montgomery Street Elementary School Principal David Burrell wanted to do something unique to improve the look of the school. In his first year as principal there, Burrell chose to focus on livening up the entrance.
“There was a mural in the lobby, but it was older, and nobody really understood its significance anymore,” said Burrell of the previous seven-year-old mural. “The old mural had images that made sense to the class that painted it, but they’ve all moved on.”
A parent-teacher-night chat with local artist Connie Wheaton, owner of Fredericton’s House of Art by Connie, and mother of two Montgomery Street Elementary students, helped Burrell solidify his vision. Wheaton volunteered to paint a new mural at the front entrance.
And last month, Burrell’s updated entrance became a reality as the school unveiled Wheaton’s new mural at the front entrance.
“They needed a little love in the hallways,” said Wheaton of the entrance before her mural. “It brings a lot of joy to students and teachers, and now it’s an inviting space, not just a cold entranceway.”
Throughout the six-month project, Wheaton and Burrell also encouraged any interested students to participate.
“I thought we could make this a learning experience and get some kids involved,” Wheaton said. A handful of Grades K-5 students helped, as did two Grade 12 students.
The mural, which features a prominent painting of a moose, recognizes the school’s mascot, Monty the Moose. Burrell said that besides the school logo and the occasional t-shirt, Monty the Moose didn’t show up much around the building.
“When you walk in, it feels fresh and vibrant, and you can see the moose now,” he said.
Wheaton, who has also painted a mural for Fredericton High School, has been encouraged by reactions to the mural that she’s witnessed.
“The kids and teachers would stop and say ‘that’s so pretty’,” she said. “Their reactions made it so worthwhile.”
“It was a nice project to kickstart the year,” Burrell said. “It was a labour of love too.”
