A Space for Elijah
The Project
Several years ago, I was asked to do a mural for my friend and her son, Elijah. Elijah's room was being moved to another space in his home and has been reconstructed to meet his medical and psychological needs. Elijah's room is near completion and the question arose of would I still be interested in painting a mural in his room. Greatly honored and without hesitation the answer was YES.
A space for Elijah.... what could be artistically designed that would visually stimulate Elijah? Elijah's, Mother and I both had several talks about Elijah's as well as her likes and dislikes. Remembering Elijah is soon to be a teenager was amusing and difficult for us as mothers watching our children grow up into adulthood. We each had so many ideas. I began my to learn more about CVI. This mural began to take flight. It is no longer just a painting, to Elijah, his family or myself. It's considering how an individual like Elijah can see and receive the world, but also how his room can become his!
Turning a Mural into a Class
The most amazing thing happened. I was asked by a coordinator at Empire State College, what was new? Sounds simple enough?...Right? I ended up telling him how excited I was for being asked to do a mural for my friends! In hearing the details he thought I should turn it into a class. I never considered it, so thank goodness he did. I got in touch with my mentor, who I have learned a tremendous amount from since my classes. I sent a note telling her about the opportunity to do a room for Elijah. She was right there with me in the zeal of the possibilities and started moving mountains to make this class happen!
There is so much to consider which swiftly made this project of love to far more than just a painting. There are levels and depths that have profoundly touched me, and truly have taught me so much. Having a taste of this has definitely sparked an interest in hopes of future projects for kids with needs!
This semester has been quite a journey! One I am so very grateful for!
Behind the Scenes Activities
Along with understanding the psychosocial side of Elijah and his family's needs, it was important to meet with the teachers and therapist involved in Elijah's care.
* Met with Elijah's Mother to learn more about their needs, interest and likes.
*Researched CVI
*Began a correspondence with Golden Paints to determine if I could apply for a grant
*Wrote a proposal and officially applied for a Grant from Golden Paints.
*Visited Elijah's school, witnessed his group session, & spoke with the amazing staff that surrounds him.
*Phone conference with Elijah's visual therapist.
*Drew up first set of story boards as a means of communication and to make adjustments
*In contact with Elijah's Mom, his teacher, and therapist to get approval on design concepts
Another important aspect was to research what types of paint, products and techniques that I would utilize in implementing this project.
* Discovered the world of Golden Paints!
* Went to Rochester Art Supply to learn from their staff about the ideal paints for this project
* Started a correspondence, with Golden paints.
*Wrote a proposal to Golden Paints and applied for a grant
* Researched deeper into Golden Paints product line in technical services.
*Researched and ordered specialized lights from EL Wire, which would meet another sensory need.
*Prepared Elijah's room for the mural
*Received word from Golden Paint that we got the grant. Grateful doesn't cover how we all feel.
The Golden Paints arrived! It was such a moving moment to open the boxes and the first thing I see is their beautiful generosity! They granted these paints for this project and for Elijah. The only thing they asked is to see pictures along the way. It's my honor, I am profoundly grateful.
Paint, Products, & Techniques
Research on the best paints, products and techniques to will ensure the best results for this project Studying Golden Paints has been a fun and interesting path of the journey. Golden paints are a professional line of acrylic paints. Their colors are more saturated, and much more durable. There is also gels and many other additives that can give effects or extend the dry time with these paints without losing the integrity of the color quality. Finally, the fun part of transferring the design to Elijah's wall will be the next step.
Fluorescents
Interference
Selection of Colors
Size and Price Range
El Wire
I envisioned blue lights going on the ceiling and white lights to string Elijah's guitar. EL Wire have been a huge help in talking me through their lights. I spoke with them on the phone and they helped me work out the details to get the look I want to achieve. They have worked with other sensory rooms and gave us a discount, stating no child with special needs pays full price.
Sensory Room Story
By Michele Jenco
Winter Semester 2017
Empire State College