The RiseUP Group and West Hartford Prevention Partnership collaborated for the mural now completed at West Hartford’s Hall High School.

Hall junior Maya McMilllan giving a speech before the ribbon cutting for the mural. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

By Ryan Leef

A vibrant new mural celebrating diversity, inclusion, and creativity was unveiled in the courtyard of Hall High School on May 30, 2025. The goal of the mural is to be more than just a colorful addition to the school grounds – it is to stand as a powerful symbol of student voices, collaborations, and the overall community.

The project was led by Hall students in partnership with RiseUP for Art, a Connecticut-based art nonprofit dedicated to creating public murals and paintings that uplift local communities. The mural was co-sponsored by Elevate WeHa, the West Hartford Prevention Partnership, and Youth Recovery CT, organizations whose goals are to foster youth leadership and positive community engagement.

RiseUp Executive Director Matt Conway speaks to the group gathered for the mural ribbon cutting. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

Founded in 2012 by Matt Conway, RiseUP has helped produce over 150 murals across the state. Its mission is to empower communities through the arts by connecting students, local artists, and civic groups to tell meaningful stories visually.

“Public art is more than just art,” said Conway. “It’s about creating spaces that inspire, improve, and represent the people who live there.”

Thanks to RiseUP’s student educational programs and ties to the local arts scene, Hall students had the opportunity to work side-by-side with professional artist Candyce “Marsh” John of Marshun Art, who praised their creativity and commitment. “I was impressed by the willingness and work ethic the students brought to the project,” she said.

Candyce “Marsh” Johns of Marshun, a professional local artist who helped create the mural with students. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

Elevate WeHa, a youth-led initiative under the West Hartford Prevention Partnership, also played a vital role in supporting the effort. The group works to create substance-free, inclusive spaces where young people are empowered to lead with purpose.

“This project is the first of many spaces around West Hartford influenced by members of the community,” said a spokesperson for Elevate WeHa. “It reflects what happens when we listen to young people and let their creativity lead.”

Hall junior Ismial Suliman and Principal Sarah Isaacs. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

Students involved in the mural shared deeply personal reflections on the experience.

Junior Maya McMilllan described the piece using the word sonder – the realization that everyone around you lives a life as complex as your own. “RiseUP let me be more motivated and willing to reach out to others,” she said. “Art is the best way to make a difference.” Maya was the one who first brought the idea to Principal Sarah Issacs, who quickly embraced the vision and helped bring it to life.

Hall junior Shawn Todd speaks to the crowd gathered for the mural ribbon cutting. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

Sophomore Barak Goldberg emphasized the mural’s collaborative spirit: “It was created by lots of different people from lots of different backgrounds and perspectives.”

Fellow student Shawn Todd added, “Everyone’s ideas were put into it,” while another student shared, “This mural puts me in a happy place. I hope others feel that, too.”

Students used words like positivity, togetherness, teamwork, and motivation to describe the final piece.

A new mural, created in collaboration by several organizations, was unveiled at Hall High School on May 30, 2025. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

Principal Issacs expressed pride and excitement: “This project is just the beginning. I am so excited to see what we do next.”

Ultimately, the mural is concrete evidence of the positive impact that art can have on the West Hartford community, the powers of student leadership and the strength of community partnerships. With the support of organizations like RiseUP and Elevate WeHa, Hall High School has created more than a mural – it has created a message: every story matters, and every voice has a place on the wall.

A new mural, created in collaboration by several organizations, was unveiled at Hall High School on May 30, 2025. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

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