FIVE panels of historical art will adorn the Suttontown Primary School’s walls in the coming weeks in celebration of the institution’s 150th birthday.
Celebrating its sesquicentenary in March, the school has highlighted a number of achievements throughout its colourful history to commemorate with art.
Deciding a “jigsaw” mural would be a perfect fit, school principal Josie McBain approached Adelaide-based artist John Whitney to put together a collaborative project.
“The students have been busily asking questions about the school’s history since beginning the mural,” Ms McBain said.
“Each of the five panels will present a different era since our establishment right through from 1869 to 2019.
“The artwork may raise questions in years to come and the students are experiencing a unique way of learning about the school’s history.”
Mr Whitney said many staff, parents and students had helped complete the chronological panels.
“It starts off with historical pieces mainly of old photographs and images the school has collected,” he said.
“This first three panels showcase the historical elements of the school and the significant moments throughout its timeline.
“The last two panels are students’ designs from receptions all the way to Year 7 students.”
Mr Whitney said the students all completed a drawing when learning about the school’s history.
“Most of their designs are contemporary versions of course, creating their own version of the image,” he said.
“I always stress to the students it is not always the best designs which get chosen, it is those that show relevant meaning.
“Although, if you look through a large mass of drawings a few can stand out.”
Mr Whitney said the range of designs were chosen through discussion with the school’s leadership team.
“We ended up with a range of drawings which fit the pattern,” he said.
“I weaved the magic and put all the bits and pieces together into one piece of art.”
Mr Whitney said he enjoys the job of recording community history.
“I have had this fortune over these 30 years and it has taken me all around the state,” he said.
“I enjoy working with young people and communities.
“It is a bit of a buzz to come back to your work completed over a decade ago and still see it there as it was painted on day one.”
Mr Whitney said the project was exciting for the school.
“It is really a visual way of recording Suttontown’s history,” he said.
“The students at the school and any visitors can come and look over the school’s milestones in years to come.
“They will be able to come back and remember the piece they helped complete.”
