May 17, 2019
Morgantown, WV – Brookhaven Elementary School unveiled a life-size sculpture of a bull, the school’s mascot, on Friday, May 17, 2019, in front of the school. The sculpture, titled “Strength in Unity,” was created through a year-long project under the direction of art teacher, Jason Jaros.
Brookhaven Elementary students helped design the project and covered the sculpture with over 13,000 mirror, glass and tile pieces to create mosaic patterns and symbols representing peace, togetherness, tolerance and unity.
The collaborative art project began during a summer program in 2018, and continued through the current school year with students working on the sculpture during Jaros’ art classes. Nearly every Brookhaven student and staff member participated. Members of the school’s green team planted flowers surrounding the base of the sculpture.
“The goal was to include as many people as possible in the art making process and emphasize the idea that we are stronger when we work together,” said Jaros. “I am so proud of the students, staff, and Brookhaven family for all the hard work and dedication that made this project a success.”
Noted West Virginia sculptor, Jamie Lester, served as a structural consultant on the project, furthering the relationship between the students and the local art community.
Jaros was awarded funding for this project through a grant from the Stephen D. Tanner Children’s Enrichment Fund at Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia, Inc. (YCF). The Fund provides enrichment opportunities for Monongalia County students through grants to Title I schools. Teachers and other school personnel at Monongalia County Title I schools may apply for funding for the 2019-20 school year beginning this summer.
For more information, please visit YCF’s website at http://ycfwv.org, email info@ycfwv.org, or call (304) 296-3433.
