In an exciting new addition to the Founders Building Corridor, a mural created by a group of Year 8 students has transformed the space, combining art and music in a stunning display of creativity and teamwork. The mural, which is a vivid tribute to the music, drama and performing arts talents within our community, was crafted using recycled musical instruments, adding both a unique aesthetic and a sustainable twist to the artwork.
The journey to bring this mural to life began late last year when a group of passionate students teamed up with Mr Chris Hilton, the Art teacher, after school and during lunchtimes in late 2024. Together, they embarked on a creative process that was equal parts artistic and hands-on. As part of the team, Avina and Madeleine explain:
We started by dividing our group into two. Half of us focused on painting and decorating the background, while the other half spray painted and splatter-painted old musical instruments.
The result is a large, colourful mural that stretches across the corridor, measuring an impressive 5 meters in length. The background features bold shapes, with the recycled instruments painted in silver, adorned with vibrant splashes of colour that create a striking contrast. The instruments, representing the wide and colourful spectrum of Music, are arranged with purpose and flair, while masks – symbolising Drama and the Performing Arts – appear alongside them, completing the artwork.
The students, who worked tirelessly on the project every Wednesday after school and during lunchtimes, were also involved in the technical aspect of the installation, recalling:
We had to secure the instruments to the board using nails and screwdrivers. It was tough work, but seeing the final result made it all worthwhile.
As part of their design, the students added musical notes to the mural, along with labels for the departments they were representing. On the opposite side, the names of all the students who contributed to the project are featured. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that everyone’s efforts are acknowledged and celebrated.
The inspiration behind the project came from the music department’s longstanding tradition of passing on broken instruments to Mr Hilton. With so many instruments gathering dust, Mr Hilton saw an opportunity to repurpose them in a way that would engage and inspire others. He reached out to the students with an exciting challenge: to create an artwork that would not only beautify the Founders Building Corridor but also serve as a reminder of the creativity and collaboration that thrives within the School.
We’re so proud of how it turned out! It’s such an eye-catching and colourful piece, and we hope it’s appreciated for many years to come.
The mural’s completion marks the end of months of hard work, and it was finally installed over the January school holidays, thanks to the efforts of the Maintenance Team who raised and secured the structure. The students returned to school in 2025 to find the finished product awaiting them.
The Performing Arts mural stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, sustainability and the creative spirit that defines our TKS community. It will no doubt continue to inspire all who walk through the Founders Building Corridor for years to come.
Thank you to Avina, Madeleine, Angie, Fenice, Emily, Ruby, Lisa, Gina, Clara and Mr Hilton for their hard work and dedication in bringing this remarkable project to life.
