Recently, Chula Vista High students, staff and community gathered for a special ceremony to unveil a stunning mural in their school community garden. Excitement and pride filled the air as everyone eagerly awaited the reveal of the vibrant mural created by SCPA Alumni and talented artist, Lily Reed, and Chula Vista High students.

Lily, a special education student who once feared public speaking, found inspiration for the mural from the insects she observed in the garden during her senior year. Guided by her teacher, Marie Gallagher, Lily poured her heart and soul into the design, drawing from her own experiences and memories at Chula Vista High.

As the ceremony began, Art Teacher, Michelle Speilman, expressed her pride in the completion of the mural, a project that had been two years in the making. She highlighted Lily’s dedication and the countless hours she had volunteered to work with students on the project, leaving a lasting legacy at the school.

Marie Gallagher spoke passionately about the significance of the mural, describing it as a symbol of growth and beauty that emerges when we care for our surroundings. She emphasized the importance of the garden and mural as a representation of a community that values creativity, passion, and the courage to speak up for oneself and others.

Lily, who graduated from Chula Vista High in 2022, beamed with pride as she shared her journey of overcoming barriers and finding her voice through art. She revealed that she was currently working on a children’s book, illustrating and writing her own story, a testament to her creativity and determination.

The ceremony was a celebration of the power of art, passion, and community, showcasing how anything is possible when one has a true love for their craft. Lily’s story served as a reminder that with dedication and support, beautiful transformations can take place, both in the physical world and within ourselves.