A gifted artist and former adult student of Calexico Mission School (CMS) has created an imaginative mural that blends local history and educational concepts with a tribute to more than 900 donors who have recently supported the school.
Elmer Alberto Sanchez began creating the work in 2003. The finished artwork was installed in March 2006 and features clusters of designed ceramic tiles that grace the entryway to the high school building. Entitled “Encounter,” the work pictures the convergence of cultures and ideas.
The suggestion for the mural emerged in the spring of 2001. J. Jesus Briseno, parent of Calexico students, reported seeing an impressive mural at the university library of Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (UABC/Mexicali). Daniel Dial, Calexico principal at the time, and Jim Pinder, director of development, embraced the project and began promoting it.
Francisco Saenz, the engineer who had installed Sanchez’ original mural for the university, also had children attending CMS. Through his friendship, he reconnected Sanchez with the Calexico school and plans progressed for the new mural.
Originally from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Sanchez went to Mexico City as a young man for art training and became especially interested in ceramics. When he moved to Mexicali he registered as an adult for English classes at CMS. Later a Calexico faculty member introduced him to ceramic trends in the United States. He did research on clay in the outskirts of Mexicali and also took courses in archeological ceramics at Mesa Verde, Colo. He has traveled throughout Mexico speaking on artistic expression in ceramics. In 1982, he became part of the UABC faculty where he was in charge of the ceramics shop and served as gallery director for 12 years.
“We are honored to have Professor Sanchez’s work displayed in our school,” said Susan Smith, principal.
The mission school enrolls nearly 400 students (K-12). About 85 percent cross the U.S.-Mexico border each morning to attend school. Most have a faith heritage other than Seventh-day Adventist. Students not only learn English and acquire a quality education, but also attend Bible classes. Each year several are baptized and a number of CMS students have become pastors, teachers and Adventist leaders.
