US - Uganda Mural Exchange Project
The Experience
Students step into a virtual design studio where the “office” spans two continents. In the Sunday Design Studio, art becomes a shared language for exploring sustainability, culture, and global responsibility. Working alongside peers in Uganda, students transform ideas from The Story of More into a large-scale, two-panel international mural. This program blends live global collaboration, digital design, and hands-on creation—guiding students from concept to exhibition.
How the Project Works: Phases & Timeline
To support meaningful collaboration across time zones and formats, the program unfolds in six clearly defined phases:
Phase 1.1: Global Design Collaboration (Online Live with Uganda)
Feb 1 – March 1
Sundays, 10:00–11:00 PM PST
Monday mornings in Uganda (9:00–10:00 AM)
Students meet live online with their Ugandan peers to explore sustainability themes—Food, Water, Energy, and Waste. Together, they share lived experiences, exchange ideas, and begin co-designing the international mural using Adobe Express.
This phase builds global perspective, collaboration skills, and the foundation of the shared artwork.
Phase 1.2: U.S. Design Development (Online, U.S. Students Only)
March 3 – April 26
Sundays, 8:00–9:00 PM PST
U.S.-based students refine and expand the designs developed during Phase 1. Work with Uganda students unsynchronized. Sessions focus on digital design techniques, storytelling, and preparing artwork for physical translation.
This phase allows students to deepen skills while accommodating school schedules and time zones.
Phase 2: In-Person Spring Break Overnight Design Intensive
April 13 – April 17 @ Hidden Villa
Students gather for an immersive, overnight design experience surrounded by nature. Together, they finalize mural concepts, translate digital designs into large-scale formats, and prepare for painting. This is a hands-on, collaborative retreat focused on creativity, teamwork, and connection.
Phase 3: Uganda Half Design & Painting
Late April: Uganda Students finish painting their 1/2 before school end.
Phase 4: US Half Design Review Phase
May: US Students finish painting their 1/2 before school end.
Phase 5: U.S. Painting & Exhibition Preparation
June 8 – June 12 Overnight Camp @ Portola Redwoods State Park
Partner in Uganda
Mr. Ssembiro Mike is an accomplished art educator and muralist committed to empowering young people through creative expression. As Senior Inspector of Schools for Art and Crafts, he promotes arts education and innovation across Uganda. He is the founder of Kasangula Talent School and leads the African Peace Murals, a movement using art to inspire peace and community transformation.
With over 20 years of experience using art as a tool for education and peace building, Mr. Mike Ssembiro aims to create art that reflects challenges, hopes, and dreams.
