 
 
 
 
Middle school students working on
"Hall of Heroes" mural.
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The “Hall of Heroes” mural project, located at Long’s Peak Middle School in Longmont, CO
The concept was the “brain child” of English and History teacher, Gary Barnett. He and art teacher, Bruce Bennett first hired Susan to design and oversee the project in 1997.
These panels depict individuals from diverse backgrounds who have overcome their own personal circumstances to make a difference in American society and culture. The figures chosen were selected by instructors, based on individuals studied at the middle school level. These panels are 3' x 7'.
Students were directly involved in every phase of the project: research, design and implementation. The project not only teaches the students about the individuals depicted but how a modestly large project is created from beginning to end. Gary Barnett wanted to model a professionally executed finished project, for the students, so professional artists were hired to work one on one with students and to complete the “finish painting.” To date, six panels from the original overall design concept have been completed and the remaining 16 panels are in various stages of completion. This project thus far, has been funded solely by grants (written by Barnett, Dailey and Bennett) as well as by donations from individuals, organizations and businesses over a period of 10 years. Work resumes as funds become available. Financial resources are still needed to complete the remaining 16 panels of this monumental mural project. Funds will go towards the completion of the remaining murals, as well as the publication of a textbook that will document the individuals depicted in the murals. This book can be used as a teaching tool for LPMS instructors, as well as a fundraiser to support other school projects in the future. If you are interested in contributing to this project, or would like more information, please contact Longs Peak Middle School: (303) 776-5611
The Veteran's Memorial mural project was completed and in 1995. It was funded by a grant written by Gary Barnett and other generous benefactors. It is a unique tribute to Veterans dating from WW I through the Viet Nam War. The idea was to create a tribute that did not depict violent scenes, but did honor the contributions and sacrifices of Veterans. LPMS has continued to have a Veterans Day celebration every third year, since the original dedication of the mural in 1995. In addition, they also host a continental breakfast for veterans each memorial day and extend an invitation for interested veterans to speak to the middle school classes. One day, Susan saw a grown man crying, as he looked at the mural. He was a Viet Nam vet. He said when he returned; there was no tribute, and seeing this memorial was making up for it to the point of making him emotional. It was a very touching moment. 8’ x 16’ acrylic on canvas.
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