The mural idea began in 2023 with a proposal to the PTA Bula Project Committee. “The Bula Project” is a comprehensive initiative designed to enhance various aspects of the ISS School Environment. The idea of the mural was to beautify the campus and celebrate the art of local artist and alumnus Jack Eastgate. With Jack on board, we reached out to our art students to ensure the project was collaborative, blending their ideas with Jack’s style. 

The student mural committee was formed from the same students who worked on the set design for the 2024 “I Am Moana” production, as they already had experience with large-scale painting. These students from Year 10 – Allana, Siena, Silivina,  Stephanie, Tamara and Uini – not only showcased their skills but also represented the diverse nationalities in our school.

The first step was to choose a wall. We selected the breezeway, a busy path leading to many areas of our school, and home to the new Vai Cafe, making it the perfect spot. Students then sat in the location, considering our school identity, the beautiful Masi designed by Ms. Vita, and the newly created flag for inspiration.                   

As the students sat with Jack by the wall and learned the fundamentals of large-scale painting, they were tasked with creating general designs. Jack then used these designs to create initial images for consideration. From these initial designs and the suggestions from the Bula team, Jack created four concepts to present.

As the students and Jack worked on the mural, modifications were made. The color scheme was selected to complement the school colors of navy blue and olive green and to bring vibrant colors to the school. This goal was achieved with this beautiful, colossal mural.

A huge thank you to the students – Allana, Siena, Silivina, Stephanie, Tamara, and Uini – who worked tirelessly to create this masterpiece. Special thanks to Jack for his creativity and love for the arts and the school, which will be enjoyed by many generations of ISS students.

The ISS PTA Bula Mural Committee