Those of us whose schedules take us through the downstairs science wing have most likely seen the new murals being painted on the walls, one of a scene from the beloved Pixar movie Nemo, and the other of a giant octopus and a boat sporting the Hurricane warning flags. Many of us, however, do not know specifically who is painting them or why.

Mr. Kommer, the teacher for Marine Biology said, “If you look around the Marine classroom and the halls you will see some of the projects we offer to students for their third rotation projects. These projects are alternatives for art students or just people who want to add art to the school.”

A third rotation project is crucial to a Marine Bio student’s fourth quarter average. First, the murals-to-be are approved by Mr. Herr and Mr. Kommer. Then, the students are given a sheet of guidelines, and at the end of their project along with Mr. Kommer the students grade themselves. The grade is based on the painting itself, progress and whether or not the student was on task during the periods were are given to work on their mural.

Senior Natalie Reilly and junior Allie Brezinski are the artists behind the Nemo mural. Allie said, “Both of us came up with the idea for the mural after we watched this significant scene of the movie in class.” They expect to be finished by the end of the first week of finals.

The octopus mural, painted by senior Sal Valdespino, was chosen because “it was one everybody kept requesting. Originally it was a much smaller acrylic painting on canvas that was a gift for a friend.” He also said, “I thought it would really capture the sort of love and respect we have for the ocean, not just in Kommer’s class but WHB as a whole, so it felt like fitting representation.” Sal came up with his concept in January, started painting in mid-March, and will have the mural done by the last day of school.

By next year, all WHB students will be able to enjoy these artistic tributes to the sea. Make sure to thank the artists who worked so hard to add beauty to our school!