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The mural “Always Learning” affirms the knowledge and education needed to promote a community. The mural pulls together moments from our Meso-American pasts mirrored with our present West Side-San Antonio hood. The title also represents the belief that one never stops learning- even as teachers, parents and students- learning arrives at all times of our lives-stitched to our stories like the binding on books. Education and the sharing of knowledge of all forms has followed us as a significant human interaction from our indigenous ancestors to our current day and future presence. Like seeds, students will rise above the seminal stages of knowledge as their roots support and respect one another to branch out and contribute to the greater world; flowering with knowledge and pride. The images of music accessories, instruments, sports, mathematics, art and storytelling are illustrated and represented in both past and present symbolism whilst our daily lives. However, what is noted through time, is that our lifestyle as a community of dedication, support and hope has yet to change. This compilation of images represents the historical and cultural learning, passion, community, trust and drive that are ever present in the West Side. The imagery and bright complementary colors of the mural are meant to ignite and inspire the community surrounding and frequent to the mural, by displaying positive academic and emotional symbols and interactions which include our ultimate student goals of cultural competency, contributive citizenship and a demanding thirst for education. 

The central mural represents the surrounding theme of music and voice in our mural, as our school is acclaimed as a Fine Arts Academy, where our students thrive on art, expression and music. The student in cap and gown is centered- graduation: the apex of formal education- and displays a headdress representing cultural and historical knowledge and pridein one self and an opera mask- illustrating our desire for expression, voice and presence! 

The mural was created by a group of Irving middle school teachers, students and community artists over a 9-month period. The mural combines mathematical number sense and art application, while fostering a community for self-improvement and resistance in its participants.