When thinking of homecoming, there are many things that make the night memorable, and the one thing everyone can remember is the artwork. Art Club and the different art classes at Monticello High School play an important role in decorating for homecoming.
From the very beginning of school to the end of September, the art students spend their class periods and free time working hard to make homecoming night an exciting experience. Art teacher, Mr. Stripens, is in charge of all parts of decorating for homecoming.
“The theme this year is step right up which is a kinda like vintage/ carnival/ boardwalk inspired theme,” said Stripens.
This theme gave the students lots of room to get creative and pick different ideas for their murals.
“I just love the experience of putting out an idea or a problem and working as a group to find a solution, so as far as the most creative theme ideas, it’s hard to say. It’s just going to be a really fun, bright and colorful theme, and I’m excited for that,” added Stripens.
Homecoming is a very important part of the school’s pride and spirit. Everyone works together to have a good time.
“I also think it is a very important tradition [here at MHS] because we’re really the only school I know of that does a big full blown homecoming experience like this. My high school did nothing for homecoming. They hung a couple balloons and streamers and called it a day,” said Stripens.
As far as the importance of this experience for art club students, Stripens said, “It requires a lot of dedication for our students, and I don’t think that anyone who hasn’t gone through it really understands.”
Even though homecoming is fun once it is done, the process of preparing for it can be grueling. Between actual school, sports, and other activities it is hard for some kids to have enough time to finish their murals. Stripens said the most stressful part of homecoming is, “the deadline of course. We’re used to dealing with deadlines in the art department but this is the only one where, really, it’s like a performance. We’re getting ready for this big opening night so it’s just that and I know it’s a big time commitment.”
It is very important when preparing for this kind of event that there is someone you can fall on. Stripens makes sure to help out students who may be falling behind.
Stripens said, “I’m helping them navigate and listen to…their various activities, homework, and homelife, and trying to find a balance between those things. It’s a balancing act, pun intended for the theme.”
Annika Wright, Staff Writer
The Sage Informer 
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