by Arrianah Jones
University of West Georgia art professor Ryan Lamfers recently teamed up with students Caleb Nase, Jacey Singleton and recent alumna Sarah Gailey ’24 to bring a splash of color and imagination to UWG’s Early Learning Center (ELC).
Created in collaboration with the College of Education (COE), the team designed a vibrant mural that invites the young children in the center to explore the world around them through depictions of local animals and interactive elements. The project showcases the value of collaboration and creativity in educational spaces.
“For our students, this was a chance to apply everything they’ve learned in their art courses to a real-world project,” said Lamfers. “Watching them bring an idea to life through their artistic lens was incredibly inspiring.”
The Art Atelier program functions as a professional organization within the art department. Their goal is to give students the opportunity to work directly with clients, brainstorm and develop creative concepts, and present their ideas for feedback. Students learned how to hone their craft, develop proposals and manage budgets by listening to COE’s needs, and create something that not only met but exceeded everyone’s expectations.
“We have such gifted students at our university; they’re so talented, being able to take ideas, put them together and bring them to life,” said ELC Director, Melanie Brooks. “Our children will be able to enjoy the sensory wall and benefit and learn from it.”
There was collaboration not only between the COE and the Art Atelier but among the artists themselves. All three students had to work closely in sketching, designing, fabricating and creating every aspect of the mural. It allowed each student to bring their own strengths to the table.
“We all worked really well together,” said Nase. “Jacey is the one that really makes everything come together with paint, and Sarah and I worked hard to get everything assembled.”
The sensory wall features elements that create an inviting space for learning and play, leaving room for curiosity. It’s not just something to look at but something to explore – with every detail intentionally designed to encourage children to engage with their environment in new and meaningful ways.
The Art Atelier continues to make an impact on both campus and the Carrollton community through its creative projects. The team is currently building a gear wall for the ELC’s makerspace room and developing several proposals for public art projects.
“These opportunities are so special, and I feel very fortunate to be part of them,” said Lamfers.
