Carlsbad Art and Culture

March 28, 2019 – Carlsbad – On Thursday, March 28, Carlsbad based artist Bryan Snyder completed a large-scale mural on the campus of Calavera Hills Middle School in Carlsbad, CA. The mural coincided with the school’s inaugural ‘Spring Arts Fest’ organized by Jaclyn Labovitch of the school’s PTSA.

“What a way to show color, connection, and talent together as a community,” Jaclyn Labovitch said. “We are so grateful to Bryan Snyder who made such a positive impact on our students and our campus. We hope to continue this event for years to come!”

Snyder’s 29′ wide x 19′ tall mural was painted in spray paint and inspired by illustrations produced by Ms. Lauran Gerhart’s 7th grade art class including the school’s coyote mascot, the Calavera Mountain, monarch butterflies and surfing.

“It was a true collaboration,” Snyder said. “Every brightly painted piece of the mural came directly from the kids imagination. I also got spray cans in the hands of as many kids as I could to help complete the mural.”

Snyder created the mural over three days, each day painting during school hours and among the daily school routine. Kids hovered around Snyder between classes, asked questions and helped spray the mural. Teachers, parents, PTSA members and Principal Michael Ecker observed the inspired students.

“It’s amazing how art can transform a space,” Principal Ecker said. “This entire campus has been transformed because Bryan was here, because the work he has done.”

“What a great way to celebrate Spring, Art, and Community,” PTSA Board member and CHMS parent Lori McClausland said. “The Art Fest at CHMS gave me the opportunity to watch students, parents, and faculty work together to make art! The mural that was completed during this event is so amazing! Can’t wait until next year!”

“My 13 year old son came home so excited and would not stop talking about the mural at his school,” a parent said. “And sometimes it takes a lot to get a 13 year old boy excited.”

Snyder first became inspired to be an artist as a 3rd grader at Magnolia Elementary when Mark Kistler of the Drawing squad visited his school. During an assembly, Kistler exposed Snyder to illustration for the first time opening the door to his life-long passion.

“If that artist had not visited my school 30 years ago, I may have never found my true passion, and probably wouldn’t be here at this school today,” Snyder said. “I’ve come full-circle and hope to introduce at least one student to their true passion—it gives me goosebumps just thinking about it.”

The CHMS Art Fest included live music, art-making activities, food and refreshments and Snyder gifting CHMS an original painting created in Snyder’s signature drip technique. The school voted to hang it in the campus stairwell for all to see.

150 event attendees participated in the Art Fest event festivities.

“Our Arts Festival brought the Calavera community together for a fun family event that encourages creativity and positivity. CHMS Vice Principal Judi Stapleton said. “Having our PTSA family and Bryan Snyder here this week brought a positive energy to our campus that kicked of our Spring Break in style!”

Photos by Christina McGoldrick

Snyder’s hopes to continue inspiring students by adding more color to school campuses. Contact Snyder to schedule a mural at theartist@snyderartdesign.com.