Artists Tell Stories Through Madeira Mural Project

It is no secret that one of Madeira’s most beloved and beautiful features is its campus. From inspiring views of sparkling sunlight bouncing off the Potomac to  tranquil settings where the community can enjoy nature’s orchestra, Madeira’s campus is an artist’s dream.

Living in such an inspiring setting, the community sought to bring that vibrancy and color into the halls of the Schoolhouses, study spaces, and common areas. It was from this drive for creativity that the Arts Department launched the Madeira Mural Project in 2021 to begin adding colorful art installations around campus. The project was born of a desire to not only enhance the aesthetic value of spaces, but also to reflect our community’s culture and promote a sense of pride.

The first mural, a vintage style postcard was created by Elizabeth Thesmar ’23

Inspired by Communication Connection

The first mural, a vintage style postcard featuring iconic Madeira buildings, was created by Elizabeth Thesmar ’23 to be placed in the lower level of the Student Center. “Elizabeth’s work felt like a perfect fit for our first mural. Her postcard design captured the essence of life at Madeira, its breathtaking campus, and the iconic spaces we love,” said Arts Department Chair Sasha Newman. In that first year the Arts Department relied on volunteers to help paint the final mural, with Elizabeth leading the charge. Visual art students gladly dedicated their lunch periods to painting, collaborating and working as a team to help Elizabeth’s vision come to life.

Reflecting on the message of the piece, Thesmar shared, “I designed the mural during COVID and was inspired by how our community remained connected when it felt like the world was falling apart. I hope the mural shows future generations of Madeira students how we stayed connected through COVID and grew as a community after it.”

Mural by Asta Smitt-Jeppesen ’24 showcases seven women who have made a lasting impact

With the first mural complete, submissions rolled in the following year to transform the History hallway in Schoolhouse I. Asta Smitt-Jeppesen’s ’24 design was  selected to  showcase seven women who have made a lasting impact in their fields. The rainbow of color that now adorns the hallway is a wonderful depiction of some of the many ways women can change the world.

The most recent mural, by Nia Thomas '25, highlights the views of Black Pond

Mural Project Evolution

The Arts Department formalized the installation process in the third year. Mural submission and creation is now overseen by multiple members of the Arts faculty during the first part of the school year. The painting is completed by the Open Art Studio D Block (after-school activity) each spring.

The Madeira Mural Project recently completed its third major installation in the Dean of Student Life and Culture office. Designed by Nia Thomas ’25 to showcase the views of Black Pond, the art inspires visitors and students to dream of the places they may go.

The murals have transformed the hallways into dynamic, student-centered spaces where artistic expression is both encouraged and respected. They provide a window into student perspectives and contribute to Madeira’s strong sense of community. “I am thrilled to see how much support and love our community has the for arts and how we are able to add beauty to our learning spaces through these installations,” said Newman.

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Madeira Today. Madeira Today is published for alums, parents, and friends of the School. Click here to read publications in their entirety.

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