Teaching artist Jessica Rigsbee helps Chatham Middle students transform areas of their school through an after-school art club that sparks creativity, connection and confidence
By Morgan Cartier Weston | Photography by Lindsay Metivier
Creativity ignites change at Chatham Middle School, one brushstroke, mosaic tile and mural at a time. What began as an after-school art club blossomed into a movement of self-expression and school spirit under the guidance of teaching artist Jessica Rigsbee.
The student group is part of the North Carolina Museum of Art’s Artist Innovation Mentorship program, which connects professional artists with schools across the state to nurture imagination, collaboration and innovation. The initiative has been a perfect fit for Jessica. “It promotes school community and connection,” she says. “It allows students to explore new art mediums in a small- group setting using materials that aren’t typically accessible in the classroom.”
Jessica’s Chatham Middle club has completed five six-week sessions since its inception in spring 2024, each culminating with both personal art projects and school beautification efforts. Students have painted outdoor murals at the front of the school, designed a tapestry hanging in the main entrance and even created a mosaic mural to replace the school’s aging 1990s-era sign on Second Avenue. One of the most inventive projects turned a trip hazard outside the cafeteria into public art by filling a hole with brightly painted bricks and colorful mosaic tiles.
“Now the administration has asked if we will fill other holes,” Jessica says with a smile.
The students’ projects are as meaningful as they are colorful. “We’re planning for more murals throughout the school, both inside and outside,” Jessica explains. “We want to spread joy, unify the school and help instill pride in where they are.”
The art club is a safe haven for many students, offering a space to relax, express themselves and feel recognized. Danilo Castellon, 12, puts it simply: “I like drawing and calming my mind,” he says. “When you are frustrated, you can do paintings and drawings and feel happy and calm.”
Others, like Carmen Perez Rodriguez, 13, have grown in skill and assurance. “The teachers are really supportive,” she says. “I’ve learned shading and drawing.” Sean Mora, 12, says he enjoys both the creative process and the camaraderie: “Ms. Rigsbee and [Chatham Middle art teacher] Mrs. [Michelle] Pinto are really nice, and I get to be with my friends.” His artwork, inspired by Hispanic Heritage Month, honors his culture: “Latinos are a very friendly group of people,” Sean says. “They remind me of angels.” Michelle has observed the club’s impact firsthand. “The campus improvement projects give the kids a sense of belonging and acceptance,” she says. “They have grown so much in their art and their self-confidence. Not everyone is drawn to the academic and athletic clubs, so this gives them a place to shine.”
The club’s popularity speaks for itself, with a long waitlist. “We call one of our returning students, Ben Weideman, the creative director – he’s full of ideas,” Jessica says.
Jessica has worked with organizations and brands across the country, but she finds grassroots, hands-on work with young artists especially rewarding. The former teacher’s passion for art education and accessibility drives everything she does, including her own art business, My Depiction Addiction. “I thrive on making art exciting and accessible for diverse audiences,” she says. “Seeing how these students take ownership of their school through creativity – it’s powerful.”
Her former NCMA program supervisor, Angela Lombardi, agrees. “Jessica Rigsbee is an extraordinary individual,” she says. “Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her empathy is profound. She explains the why and the how of each technique so that skills can be gained and expanded upon, not just mimicked. Her patience and joy attract students to her.”
Jessica’s club continues transforming Chatham Middle – brightening walls, building confidence and nurturing a lasting sense of community with each session. “It’s about so much more than art,” Jessica says. “It’s about connection, pride and seeing beauty in the place you belong.”
