To highlight talent and achievement, the Dublin Unified School District has displayed a large student-created art installation representing community and diversity using its wall space.

The artwork, created by Dublin High School student Clara Yee, is visible on the east exterior wall of the district boardroom and is planned to be displayed throughout the school year. District staff have said they plan on continuing the project in the future, spotlighting a different student's artwork each year.

"Being able to contribute to the community and showcase what I want to put out there to others has been really exciting," Yee said in the unveiling video announcement.

"Something I really appreciate about our community is the opportunity that Dublin offers. I wanted to showcase this by using footwear to represent the path different people take to be involved in our community, and how we are all connected through our connection to Dublin," the artist added.

Yee explained that she created the artwork to represent the diversity throughout the Dublin community using the imagery of footwear.

"A variety of footwear is used to illustrate the wide range of people and professions in Dublin. Staff, teachers, students and community members of varying ages contribute to our experience in Dublin," Yee said.

The artwork features 15 pairs of shoes, all different sizes and styles. A clover is placed in each shoe representing everyone's connection to Dublin.

"Each pair of shoes is an individual involved in this process, adding more culture and character to Dublin. This design suits the school district boardroom well because it showcases the diverse journey of Dublin residents and the importance of the Dublin school district," Yee said.

Yee shared that she has been creating artworks from a very young age, beginning with crayon and paper. Over the years, Yee developed her skills using charcoal and she now mainly works with digital art.

As a senior this school year, Yee will act as the engineering club president. The club oversees the school's engineering facilities and promotes the subject to members of the student body.

Yee is also a member of the Dublin High drama department improv club, "Improv the Nation".

District Superintendent Chris Funk shared his reflections in the announcement.

"With her artwork, Clara has added to the sense of community I hope people feel here in Dublin, especially when visiting the district office," Funk said. "This demonstrates the diversity here in the city of Dublin and in Dublin Unified. We're so proud to have this displayed here."

Last year, students from Dublin High's Advanced Placement art class were given the chance to submit artwork to be displayed at an annual art installation. Yee was chosen as the project's inaugural artist.

For next year's installation, to be displayed in 2024-25, the district plans to survey students from Emerald and Valley high schools for their art submissions.

"From my office window, I see the east wall of our boardroom. It always struck me as a blank canvas. With so many talented and creative students in our district, there was no reason to leave the wall blank," Funk said. "Initially, we thought of having a mural painted, but the idea of being able to highlight a student's artwork every year was too appealing."

"This is the start of what I'm sure will be a great tradition for our students and community," he added.