Shown are Della Rose Salonen, Juliana Martinez, Clara Scaffidi and Ava Brown on a “friendship bench” in front of a barn owl painting. Submitted photos
The Mariposa Arts Council has offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creation of a vibrant new mural at Sierra Foothill Charter School (SFCS), a project that celebrates the unique natural beauty and community spirit of Catheys Valley.
Designed by intern Elizabeth Encoyand and brought to life in collaboration with teaching artist Clay River, the mural highlights the rich wildlife and plant life that define the region.
Even during chilly evenings, the artists’ dedication and passion were evident in every brushstroke.
At the heart of the mural are owls, iconic to the local landscape, symbolizing the deep connection between the community and the land.
Barn owls and woodpeckers, longtime residents of the oak woodlands, represent wisdom, learning and resilience.
The mural’s central theme — education, art, and the landscape — is expressed through imagery specific to Catheys Valley.
Teachers, parents and community members contributed input, emphasizing the importance of depicting the valley’s sweeping terrain, its seasonal transformation from lush green to golden brown grasslands and the enduring presence of native oak trees.
Aria Bernal, Jettie May and Teal Castile-Daniele are pictured in front of an arrow-leaf painting.
Encoyand also incorporated playful, student-inspired details, including small animals affectionately referred to as “guinea pigs” that inhabit a nearby cypress tree, an example of how student voice and imagination helped shape the piece.
Students were also directly involved in bringing the mural to life, participating in the painting process alongside the artists.
This hands-on experience allowed them to contribute their own creativity while becoming part of a lasting piece of their school environment.
“Sierra Foothill Charter School students are known for their love of natural building, often using nature for fairy houses. I wanted the artists to depict how students use these in their daily wonder and play. I am so grateful for Prop 28 funds which allow projects like this to be funded. This mural reflects not only the beauty of our environment, but the creativity, curiosity, and sense of belonging that define our school community,” said Erika Miranda, Assistant Principal, who coordinated the mural project in collaboration with the Mariposa Arts Council .
Riley Van Dusen and Ricardo Luna are pictured looking up at a painting of a northern flicker.
The mural also reflects the cycles of the school year through the changing colors of the oaks, symbolizing growth, renewal and continuous learning.
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