Vibrant murals created by senior classes decorate the halls of West Essex, and students are lucky to see these small bits of history as they walk through the building. These colorful works of art have become iconic symbols of student creativity and identity. However, few students realize how the tradition began or how it has evolved over time.
The mural tradition at West Essex dates back to 1969, when the first senior class mural was created. Initially, murals were painted directly on the school’s walls with the intention of capturing the essence of each class and the era in which they attended high school. As the school grew and wall space started to dwindle, the tradition adapted.
“Now, we use large panels to give students the space they need to create without running out of room,” art teacher Erica Lescota said. “There are two custodians, Jerry and O’Neill, who build the panels, which are always the same size: 20 feet by 12 feet.”
The switch to painting on panels was done to address both practical concerns and the need for preservation. Murals painted on drywall or plaster often deteriorate over time due to wear, water damage or issues with behind-the-wall infrastructure. With panels, the school has been able to protect the artwork and move it if necessary.
The murals are a key component of the Senior Service project for AP art students. These students work together to design and paint the class mural that reflects their class’s identity, with each mural becoming a snapshot of the time in which it was created. Each year’s mural carries themes that resonate with the students of that time, often drawing inspiration from pop culture, world events or societal trends. Past murals have explored themes such as the multiverse and aquatic life.
The tradition of murals originated from class banners. Before the murals, senior classes would create large fabric banners, often crafted by students in the Home Economics classes.
“The murals likely replaced the class banner that each senior class made,” Todd Barnes said, a 1979 graduate who now works in the high school library. “They hung in the library. Our ‘79 banner was actually a small quilt.”
For many students, the opportunity to participate in the mural project is a deeply personal one, offering a chance to leave a lasting artistic legacy.
“It’s a way for the students to leave their mark on the school,” Lescota said. “It becomes a part of their identity here.”
Looking forward, the mural tradition is set to continue, with this year’s design still under discussion. Although the details are not yet finalized, students are eager to carry on this cherished tradition.
The murals at West Essex continue to be a powerful symbol of student creativity, school spirit and the lasting legacy of each graduating class. Whether reflecting on past themes or embracing new ideas, these murals serve as both an artistic expression and a living history of the school community.
