A new mural is being painted at Greater Latrobe High School, bringing an exciting and creative flair to the school’s atmosphere. Designed by artist Katelyn Buchan and the students of Latrobe, the mural is a vibrant representation of the values and energy that define the school community. Positioned in the corridor connecting the junior and senior high schools, the 15×6 foot mural features various pictures and colors that symbolize the neighborhood’s diversity, growth, and culture. The mural is more than just a visual enhancement—it serves as a powerful reminder to students and staff alike of the importance of expression, collaboration, and the community. As it brightens the space, the artwork stands as a testament to the school’s dedication to creativity and student engagement.
About the Artist
Katelyn Buchan is a talented and passionate artist who specializes in creating stunning murals. A graduate of Seton Hill University, Buchan has been immersed in art since her childhood, developing a deep love for creativity. Known as a “speed painter,” she has trained herself to paint at an impressive pace, allowing her to complete large-scale works in a short amount of time. With nearly a decade of experience teaching kids as an art teacher, Buchan is now bringing her artistic expertise into the classrooms of Greater Latrobe. One of her most notable projects is a massive 50-foot mural located at DeGennaro’s Restaurant & Lounge, which took her several weeks to complete. In addition to her work as an artist, Buchan has been a full-time professional artist for the past five years and is also a business owner, running her own clothing line. Her passion for fostering creativity extends beyond her art, as she is actively involved with the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA) and its residency program, which brings professional artists into schools to teach students. It is through this program that she has gotten the opportunity to come to Greater Latrobe High School.
The Process
Each letter in the word “Latrobe” holds a unique symbolism that represents what makes the town truly special. The mural captures the essence of Latrobe, incorporating elements like the arts, Arnold Palmer, Mister Rogers, the NFL, Saint Vincent College, music, farmland, and more. The only guideline given to artist Katelyn Buchan was that the mural should be deeply connected to the community. “I did my research, but I actually had the kids come up with the ideas,” Buchan explains. “I set a theme for each letter, and we all discussed the most important aspects of Latrobe. The goal was for the students to come up with the concepts themselves. I had an idea in mind, but I guided them to create ideas that felt more personal and meaningful to them.” The themes of the letters are visualized in the mural: L stands for fine arts, A stands for the Latrobe community, T is music, R is agriculture, O is academics, B is sports, and E is also the Latrobe community. To bring the students’ ideas to life, Buchan printed out blank letters for them to draw their concepts following the themes. She then took these sketches home, transforming them into vibrant pieces of art.
During her time working in the school, Buchan couldn’t help but admire the impressive collection of artwork already displayed throughout the building. The students at GLHS are so fortunate they have an immersive art gallery in their school. “Some of these paintings are even better than what you’d find in galleries,” she says. “And what makes it even more special is that all of these pieces are from local artists, which adds a unique touch to the school.”
The mural serves as a powerful reflection of the students’ deep connection to Latrobe and their shared pride in the community. Through their collaboration and creativity, the students were able to bring to life a vibrant piece of art that symbolizes the town’s rich history, from its love for the arts and sports to its sense of unity and local pride. Each letter of the word “Latrobe” tells a story shaped by the students’ ideas, ensuring that the mural is both personal and meaningful. This project not only decorates the school but also strengthens the bond between the students and the town they represent while showcasing the talent and creativity that thrive within the community. The mural stands as a lasting reminder of the power of collaboration and the importance of celebrating local culture through art.
