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The Chap Stamp

Mural Artist: Katy Yeaw
May 2025

This mural was created by a group of nine Chaparral High School student artists and led by Mural Artist Partner Katy Yeaw. Blending the processes of mural-making and block printing, this piece is a celebration of growth, creativity, and collaboration.

To guide this artwork, each student selected a native plant or animal that symbolizes resilience. Their chosen subjects include: California Poppy, Agave, Prickly Pear Cactus, White Sage, Desert Cactus Wren, Road Runner, Coyote, Western Banded Gecko, and Red Diamond Rattlesnake. Students began by studying and sketching their subject, followed by exploring ways to incorporate pattern and texture into their designs. Using traditional block printing tools, they carved their artwork into linoleum blocks and created final prints, each one a unique expression of their voice and vision. These original prints are directly embedded into the mural, forming a unified composition that honors both individual creativity and collective strength.

The mural’s bold black and white contrasts, warm earth tones, and ochre accents are inspired by the students’ printmaking work. These choices create a refined, mature aesthetic while preserving the hand-carved quality of the artwork. By highlighting local flora and fauna, the mural also serves as an environmental statement honoring the natural beauty of the region and connection to physical space.

Rooted in shared effort, this mural reflects the care, artistry, and vision of the students who created it. It serves as a lasting presence on campus, one that honors their voices and the impact of their collaboration.