Mural project offers photo, interview opportunity

This week, students in the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Education’s Technology and Arts pre-college program have been busy with the design, layout and painting of a large mural for the Respite Center, 2120 Fordem Avenue.

The theme they chose for their work of art is "Peaceful Park," and they will be putting the finishing touches on it from 2 – 4 p.m. today at the center.

Under the supervision of local artist Sharon Kilfoy, a professional muralist, this small group of five middle school students has been learning painting techniques and at the same time creating an inspirational work that will benefit their community.

"These students really understand what happens here at the Respite Center," saiys Kilfoy. "They know that the kids and families who come here are having some troubled times. The mural they have created is very uplifting and focused on the good."

Kilfoy has an extensive background teaching art to children and has been the program director at the Respite Center, a crisis center for children and their families. At the center, she has delivered a curriculum that allows children to express themselves through art. She also will be available at the center this afternoon.

The Technology and Arts program is a weeklong pre-college program sponsored by the UW-Madison School of Education. It is designed to help students learn how to integrate technology and arts, with exploration in the areas of architecture, performance and visual arts, digital photography, and computer design. All courses are cross-disciplinary in nature for students entering grades 6-9. Middle school students are challenged by the in-depth study of specific subject areas. The students utilize state-of-the-art campus resources and interact with UW–Madison faculty, staff and community professionals.