Week 1' Interviews and Finding Possible Mural Locations

Hello everyone, and welcome back to my blog post!

I began the week with a meeting with Marco Santini to discuss my project in greater detail and my plans moving forward. He helped me refine my plan to conduct interviews and secure a location for my mural. Initially, I planned to rely on in-person interviews, but he suggested incorporating an online survey to expand my reach. He also advised how to prepare a formal proposal for Mr. Harmon to secure a mural location.

Following the meeting, I researched different interview methods and how to formulate effective questions. I also looked at similar projects, such as a study conducted by Professor Lebibe Topalli at the University of Applied Sciences in Ferizaj. From this, I developed and refined my own set of interview questions. After reviewing them with Mr. Opirhory, I began conducting interviews.

By the end of the week, I completed ten interviews. Most were with high school students and lasted between five and ten minutes. I also photographed potential mural locations, which are included below.

Next week, I plan to interview more individuals, especially younger students and faculty. I have already contacted the primary and middle school deans to schedule times. I aim to complete all in-person interviews before spring break and secure a final mural location.

Overall, this week was very productive.  I have greater clarity on how a professional would approach the planning stage of a mural, and I am gaining important insights into what makes artwork important to a community.

Thank you for reading, and stay tuned!