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Nature in Our Backyard

Mural Artist: Hanna Gundrum
April 2025

This mural was created in collaboration with the students and community of Mesa Verde Middle School and designed by local artist and muralist Hanna Gundrum. Inspired by student artwork, the mural celebrates the rich biodiversity of the canyon just beyond the school grounds. Flowing harmoniously across the wall, the design features native plants and animals including the acorn woodpecker, coast live oak, California poppy, California lilac, bobcat, Cleveland sage, green sweat bee, lupinus bicolor, California buckwheat, gnatcatcher, alligator lizard, tule reed, and cattail.

Students explored these species during Mesa Verde’s Nature Immersion Days and were encouraged to create their own mural concept sketches, connecting art and science through their curriculum. The project culminated in a vibrant  Community Paint Day, where over 100 students and their families joined ArtReach to bring the mural to life. This joyful collaboration transformed a well-used part of campus into a colorful symbol of connection, learning, and pride.

Special thanks to the MVMS Foundation and Meha Senthil for making this project possible.