ASM Students Collaborate with Artist Alessandro Etsom to Transform Upper School Patio with Vibrant Mural
The American School of Milan (ASM) is a place where creativity, collaboration, and community spirit thrive. This year, these values came to life through a beautiful new mural. Two Grade 8 students, Sidonie B. and Olivia B., worked alongside acclaimed street artist Alessandro Etsom to bring color and meaning to the Upper School patio wall. With support from ASM’s Fund for Excellence, Sidonie and Olivia spent months planning and designing this project. The mural now stands as a visual representation of values that resonate with the ASM community.
From Idea to Vision: Crafting a Mural with Purpose
What began as a simple idea to brighten a dull wall soon grew into something much larger. Sidonie and Olivia wanted the mural to reflect ASM’s core values—diversity, connection, and the beauty of nature. Their vision aligned perfectly with Alessandro Etsom’s unique style. Known for his engaging murals, Etsom’s work often prompts viewers to reflect on social and environmental themes.
Etsom drew inspiration from Italian Renaissance artist Giuseppe Arcimboldo, famous for his portraits made from fruits and vegetables. His mural design features vibrant leaves and flowers that reveal hidden creatures upon close inspection. This playful approach encourages viewers to pause and discover new connections.
A Creative Process That Involved the Entire Community
The mural project became a collaborative effort that went far beyond Sidonie and Olivia’s initial ideas. They actively participated in every step, working closely with Etsom to bring their vision to life. Etsom also engaged the wider student body, especially Middle School art students, in the creative process.
To gather input, he held an interactive session with students, encouraging them to share ideas about the mural’s design and message. These contributions helped shape the final piece, infusing it with a youthful energy that truly reflects ASM’s diverse community.
As the mural neared completion, Upper School art students received the opportunity to spray-paint sections of it under Etsom’s guidance. For many, this was their first experience working with professional-grade spray paints. Thanks to Loop Colors, which generously donated a range of colors, students were able to work with a vibrant palette. Each color in the Loop Colors collection is named after a city, symbolizing ASM’s global reach.
Celebrating Diversity and Unity
The mural is more than just an artistic addition to campus. Its symbolism resonates with some of ASM’s most cherished values. Through its vibrant imagery, the mural tells a story of diversity, unity, and the strength of human connection.
Etsom’s design features leaves, flowers, and hidden creatures that intertwine, forming a modern interpretation of Arcimboldo’s works. Each element in the mural represents how every individual, like every plant and creature in nature, plays an essential role in the community. This emphasis on interconnectedness reflects ASM’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where every student feels valued.
A Lasting Impact: Art as a Catalyst for Change
This mural is more than just a decorative piece—it leaves a lasting legacy at ASM. It stands as a reminder of what can be achieved through teamwork, creativity, and vision. It will continue to inspire students for years, showing them that they have the power to shape their surroundings.
By involving students in every phase of the project, ASM created an artwork that not only beautifies the campus but also strengthens community bonds. This mural exemplifies how art can connect people, helping them see each other in new ways. It has also sparked interest in art as a form of social impact, with students learning firsthand that creativity can be a powerful tool for change.
Work In Progress
Work In Progress
A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Supporters
This project would not have been possible without the generous support of ASM’s Fund for Excellence. Their funding turned Sidonie and Olivia’s vision into reality. We also extend our gratitude to Loop Colors for their donation of high-quality spray paints. These colors added vibrancy to the mural and symbolized the global connections within ASM’s community.
Of course, we are deeply thankful to Alessandro Etsom, whose artistic talent and mentorship inspired students to collaborate and express themselves creatively. His willingness to involve students in every part of the project has left a lasting impression.
Reflecting on a Legacy
Now that the mural is complete, ASM campus is buzzing with excitement and admiration. Students, teachers, and staff gather around the mural, celebrating its colors, details, and deeper meanings. Already, the mural has become a favorite gathering spot—a place for reflection, inspiration, and connection.
In the years to come, this mural will remind ASM students of the power of creativity, collaboration, and community. It symbolizes the impact each student can have on shaping their environment. This mural is more than just paint on a wall; it’s a testament to the vision and dedication of our students, the support of our community, and the transformative power of art.
So, the next time you pass by the Upper School patio, take a moment to pause and explore the mural’s intricate details. Look for the hidden creatures among the vibrant leaves and flowers. Let it remind you of the diversity, creativity, and unity that make ASM a truly special place.
We are immensely proud of Sidonie and Olivia, grateful to Alessandro Etsom, and appreciative of everyone who contributed to this project. This mural is a gift to the ASM community, and we hope it inspires us all to recognize the beauty in our surroundings—and in each other.
