Art, it portrays feelings, emotions, and messages. Soon, this form of self expression will cover the walls of three Benson community shops, Brain Hill Entertainment, Jane’s Health Market and The Pizza Shoppe.
Selected to create these large pieces of art, otherwise known as murals, are our very own Benson High student’s, freshmen Jasmine Ruch, Andrew Forsman and junior Brandon Moore. They entered a mural contest for all college and high school art students around the area sponsored by Leadership Omaha along with the Benson Business Association, the Benson-Ames Alliance, Omaha by Design and Art Omaha. Each student will work alongside a professional artist to complete their murals.
Forsman’s mural is going to be painted on the back of The Pizza Shoppe and tells a message that anyone, no matter who you are, can come into the Benson community and be accepted.
“It just came to me while walking around Benson,” said Forsman.
Ruch’s mural holds another meaning behind its colors.
“Beauty can be found in many different ways,” said Ruch.
Her mural, inspired by faces and music, will be displayed on the side of Jane’s Health Market.
The murals all have messages that speak to each and every one of us but Moore’s really holds a patriotic significance.
“[I was inspired] by the hard times America is going through,” said Moore. “It should make them feel like everything is going to be okay.”
Like the other student-artists he is excited about this new opportunity.
“I am working with Ben Hoover,” said Moore. “I’m psyche.”
Right now the murals themselves are being kept a secret and will be worked on and created this summer. So keep a close eye on Brian Hill entertainment, Jane’s Health Market, and The Pizza Shoppe to see these student’s visions come together.
Story by Jillian Humphries