Patterns of Beauty, Challenge, and Inspiration

This January, South African-born visual artist Carien Quiroga returned to The Pathways School-Springville in a five-day residency during which 13 students designed and made a stunning mosaic honoring Nelson Mandela and depicting their own efforts to follow in his footsteps of service, justice, and reconciliation.  Before the residency began, students prepared by reviewing some South African history and reading about Mandela's life and by writing essays reflecting on their own goals in light of the South African story and Mandela's legacy.  When Ms. Quiroga arrived, the students were ready with ideas and enthusiasm.  They set to work and soon became a team as the students who had worked with Ms. Quiroga previously mentored and assisted those who were less experienced.  What emerged was a striking, multi-colored work that pointedly illustrated each student's individuality and personal goals as well as the collective beauty of all working together to strive toward this year's theme of "making the impossible possible".  Along the way, the students engaged in lively, wide-ranging  conversations about what qualities made Mandela an inspiring leader and Nobel Prize winner; what ways the South African flag symbolizes the country's struggle and dream of unity; and how individual choices can shape a person's destiny.  Springville student Hunter Tschiffely put it this way: "Our school's motto shows how we students at Pathways strive to succeed no matter how difficult it may seem.  This mosaic that we are building helps us show that, expressing our dedication and strength into becoming a better person."  The mosaic will be on display at the Annual Student Art Show.