It’s been a long time coming. Back at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, an artist around campus began the journey of designing and getting a mural approved. By the end of the year, senior Saysa Reddy plans to have a brand new mural displayed in the halls of Westmont High School. The newest addition to Westmont’s murals will be one highlighting Asian culture inspired by the widely known campus club, Asian Student Union (ASU).
I interviewed both our muralist, Sasya and ASU president, Alan Lu to gain insight on this exciting project.
Sasya’s Interview:
Are you an ASU member?
“I enjoy coming to the ASU meetings when the topics interest me! I am definitely a member in spirit if not in actual attendance…”
What inspired you to take on the mural project?
“I have always wanted to paint a mural. It is my lifelong dream because I have always loved the way that murals are art meant for the public. It isn’t art trapped in a museum or a private collection, but rather, it exists for the proletariat, bringing meaningful art to those who would otherwise not seek it out. When the Asian Student Union needed a mural, I was super excited to design it and start working!”
What are some inspirations behind your design and what message do you hope to get across?
“My main goal with the design was to represent the pan-asian experience. There are so many different cultures and countries in Asia, and in my circle of friends alone, there are 10+ Asian identities and experiences. The design focuses on four main aspects that exist within the spread of our cultures: festivals, dance/music, food, and activism (Asian independence leaders and Asian American activists). Through this varied design, I hope to show the similarities and differences of our cultures as well as foster a sense of community despite our vastness. Asian Americans are such a large growing force in our country, politically and socially, so I think it is really important that we unify and uplift each other, and I hope to achieve that with this mural.”
Alan Lu’s interview:
Why do you think having a mural is important?
“So that we (Asian students) are always represented on campus. The mural also not only exceeds ASU as a club but also makes sure that the Asian community has their place on campus.”
What has being the president of ASU meant to you?
“I’ve seen the growth of not only the club but participation among various Asian cultures. Additionally, it’s fun.”
Will you be partaking in the painting process?
“Of course.”
What is one part of the mural design that is your favorite/ is most important to you?
“Definitely the ‘stop Asian hate’ portion is the most important to me. After the tragic racial discrimination that we felt during the height of the pandemic getting the message to stop the hate that we have endured is very important to me. ”
In the above picture is the design Sasya created. Plans to begin the painting process commenced on May 14, with excited students and Sasyahope to complete the project by May 27. Located at the end of the H wing, the mural will proudly represent inclusivity and representation that ASU strives to bring to campus.