“The Whale” by Hanna Wood, a mural on the 11th floor, catches the eye instantly. Wood has taken it upon herself to leave her mark on our alma mater before she graduates in May. Having had a love for art since she was a young girl, senior Hanna Wood has been working on this Mural for three months now, and her idea is finally becoming a reality.
Inspired from a young age by her older sister, who went to SCAD, Wood has always had an eye for the creative process. In middle school, art manifested into more than just a hobby for Wood, but an outlet for self expression. However, her real passion is film. “I am really looking forward to starting at Georgia State in the Fall,” said Wood. “I want to pursue a career in film.”
Beyond “The Whale” mural, Wood is set to contribute to another exciting project for the “Mean Girls” Production, where she is working on creating a temporary mural to promote the musical. This vibrant creation will be showcased in the cafeteria, adding another dimension to her diverse portfolio as she continues to explore and express her artistic talents. “I am looking forward to this project even though there is already a creative vision for it,” she said. “I am happy to assist the drama department in any way I can.”
Surrealism continues to impact artist work, even now. Wood has pulled a lot of inspiration from the movement. The intent of surrealism is to illustrate or bring out the inner workings of the mind. “The Whale” was initially an idea, a surge of creativity. Using the ideas of her Coworker Zoyakeko, who designed a tattoo for Wood, as a blueprint. She began to develop her vision for the mural. “The Whale” was produced with her favorite medium, acrylic. “I really enjoy working with acrylic and watercolor,” she said. “I’ve worked with just about every medium before, but I find that those are the ones I connect with the best.”
Chinese teacher Zhao Lao Shi has been observing Woods’ work as it progresses right outside her classroom. Zhao has witnessed her working late afternoons on the mural and has even interacted with Wood on a few occasions. “The way she works so diligently and stays after school is incredibly impressive,” Zhao said. “I am so fascinated by her talent and have enjoyed watching the mural come to life.”
Hanna Wood is one of a few artists at North Atlanta who have decided to take on such a project. Her willingness and dedication to this piece sets her apart. Her artistic journey has culminated in the creation of “The Whale.” This mural can serve as inspiration to aspiring artists at North Atlanta, showcasing the transformative power of artistic expression.
