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Lesson 6: Reflect, Connect, and Keep Creating

It’s important to reflect on your artmaking and arts learning. In this lesson, ask students to reflect on their creative process, what they learned, and how it will inform their future work.

Lesson Activity 

  1. End with a celebration!

  2. Watch The Magic of Murals from Nebraska Public Media. Discuss, “How does Nebraska’s public art inspire?” “How do images and objects tell shared, familiar stories?” (See questions and answers in the lesson resources.)

  3. Have students reflect on their designs. If they were able to create the actual public art, what do they hope it would do for the community? 

  4. Have students write about how art helps us understand the lives of people of different times, places, and cultures and how art preserves aspects of life. (Essential Question for National Visual Arts Anchor Standard 11, National Coalition for Arts Standard) 

  5. Engage students in a closing activity:

    1. Snowstorm: Students write down what they learned on a piece of scratch paper and wad it up. Given a signal, they throw their paper snowballs in the air. Then each learner picks up a nearby response and reads it aloud.

    2. Paper Slide: On paper, small groups sketch and write what they learned. Then team representatives line up and, one at a time, slide their work under a video camera while quickly summarizing what was learned. The camera doesn’t stop recording until each representative has completed his or her summary.

Lesson Resources 

The Magic of Murals Viewing Guide & Answer Key

NPM Documentary Magic of Murals Viewing Guide 

  1. What are some reasons muralists believe that murals can enhance a community?  

  2. How do artists try to make their murals appealing to people traveling through small towns?  

  3. Describe the significance of the mural titled "Starseeds" and the inspiration behind it.  

  4. What challenges do artists face when painting large murals, particularly in unique environments?  

  5. Discuss how public art, like murals, can impact local economies and community identity.  

  6. In what ways do community members participate in the mural creation process?  

  7. Explain the role of mentorship in the mural programs mentioned in the video.

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NPM Documentary Magic of Murals Answer Key 

  1. Various reasons such as adding vibrancy, attracting visitors, and making art accessible.

  2. Artists aim to create eye-catching designs that encourage people to stop and explore.

  3. "Starseeds" reflects Lakota culture and storytelling, celebrating the artist's heritage.

  4. Challenges include working at heights, dealing with weather, and ensuring safety.

  5. Murals can boost tourism and create a sense of pride and identity within the community.

  6. Community members may engage in the design process, help paint, or provide funding.

  7. Mentorship connects young artists with experienced professionals, fostering skill development and community engagement.

© 2025 by Nebraska Public Art Challenge 250. All rights reserved.

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