In a vibrant display of artistic expression and community unity, Thousand Islands Secondary School (TISS) in Brockville has unveiled a striking new mural that transforms its main hallway into a celebration of diversity, culture, and connection. The masterpiece, which took months to complete, now greets students and visitors with a kaleidoscope of colors representing the multicultural fabric of both the school and broader Brockville community.
“Art has this remarkable ability to bring people together and tell stories that sometimes words alone cannot express,” said Principal Terry Gardiner during Wednesday’s unveiling ceremony. “This mural represents who we are as a school community – diverse, inclusive, and connected.”
The project emerged from collaboration between TISS students, staff, and local artists who sought to create a visual representation of the school’s commitment to inclusivity. The mural features symbolic elements representing various cultural backgrounds present in the student body, including Indigenous motifs, international symbols, and imagery reflecting the region’s heritage.
Student participation proved crucial to the mural’s authenticity. Grade 11 student Amina Hassan, who contributed to the design process, explained, “We wanted something that would make everyone feel seen and represented when they walk through these halls. It wasn’t just about creating something beautiful – though it definitely is – but about making a statement that diversity is our strength.”
The impressive artwork spans nearly 40 feet and incorporates techniques ranging from traditional painting to modern graphic elements. Local artist Jennifer McKendry guided the technical aspects while encouraging students to infuse their personal perspectives into the work.
“The process was just as important as the final product,” McKendry noted. “Watching students from different backgrounds share their stories and find creative ways to weave them together was the true masterpiece here.”
Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with local residents praising the school’s initiative to create a visual reminder of Brockville’s evolving demographic landscape. Mayor Mike Kalivas, who attended the ceremony, commended the project for “showcasing the best of what our community represents.”
The mural project received funding through a provincial arts grant specifically designed to promote cultural understanding in educational settings. Upper Canada District School Board Superintendent Susan Edwards highlighted how such initiatives align with broader educational goals: “When students see themselves and their cultures reflected in their learning environment, it fosters a sense of belonging that directly impacts academic achievement.”
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mural incorporates QR codes that, when scanned, provide additional information about the various cultural elements depicted, creating an interactive educational component. This technological integration transforms the artwork into a teaching tool that will continue to educate future generations of students.
For TISS art teacher Miranda Johnson, who coordinated much of the project, the mural represents more than just a beautification effort. “This is about creating a visual mission statement for our school,” Johnson explained. “Every day, students will pass by this reminder that their unique backgrounds and perspectives are valued and celebrated here.”
As Brockville continues to grow more diverse, with newcomers from around the globe settling in the Eastern Ontario city, initiatives like the TISS mural serve as powerful symbols of community evolution and adaptation. The artwork stands as testament to how educational institutions can lead conversations about inclusion through creative expression.
As students begin a new academic year surrounded by this colorful celebration of identity, one cannot help but wonder: How might this daily visual affirmation of diversity shape the next generation’s understanding of community and belonging?
