Art students from Cochise College have brought a new look to the Oscar Yrun Community Center, painting a large-scale, multi-wall mural that is set to be unveiled on Tuesday, May 14, at 11 a.m. The project, part of the ART 292 Special Topics in Art: Mural course, was led by JenMarie Zeleznak, Instructor of Art at Cochise College.
The mural, designed and executed by students, enhances the community center’s Art Studio exterior with a magical, whimsical desert dream theme. This transformation was a collaborative effort involving research, conceptualization, design and execution stages.
“At the beginning of the semester, students met with Art Studio staff to discuss the desired subject matter, style, and themes for the mural,” Zeleznak said. “They took measurements and began brainstorming ideas inspired by the space and its potential.”
The initial weeks of the course focused on studying contemporary murals across Arizona, emphasizing the use of visual elements to create unity and harmony in large outdoor spaces. Students explored flora and fauna as their subject matter, incorporating playful, curious, and wondrous elements into their designs. “A recurring motif in the mural is the San Pedro River, symbolizing how it is essential to Cochise County by nourishing and giving life to one of the most important riparian areas in the Desert Southwest,” added Zeleznak.
Working in small groups, the students generated ideas and visuals. Later coming together to refine the designs with a focus on unity and flow. Areas of emphasis at the forefront of critique were moments of playfulness, curiosity, and wonder.
The project not only provided students with practical experience but also demonstrated how artists can engage with and contribute to their community. “The mural offers the public an opportunity to experience art in daily life while also fostering Sierra Vista as a community that supports the appreciation and pursuit of creative activity,” Zeleznak said.
Student artists include Natalie Andres, Ethan Benton, Kimberly Boatner, Liliana Hernandez, Kristy Hom, Malachi Johnson, Amy Le Bel Schorremans, Lee Pereda, Aevah Rios and Skye Robinson.
The Neighborhood Partnership Grant Initiative, facilitated by the City of Sierra Vista, awarded $2,486.52 to support this project. The public unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony will celebrate the student’s accomplishments and the mural’s addition to the community center.
The event is open to the public.
