School of the Arts student murals will become a permanent part of Spectrum’s new Northeast regional headquarters in Henrietta

Henrietta, New York – The walls of Spectrum’s new Northeast regional headquarters in Henrietta will soon tell a story shaped by student imagination, local perspective, and a shared idea of connection. That story comes from students at the School of the Arts, whose original murals were selected as winners in a regional contest focused on the theme of “connectivity.”

Spectrum invited SOTA students to interpret what connectivity means in a modern, community-centered world. Rather than limiting the challenge to technology alone, the company encouraged broad and personal interpretations. The result was a wide range of artwork exploring how people, places, and services are linked together through communication, infrastructure, and shared experiences.

The winning designs will become a permanent part of Spectrum’s new headquarters, turning expansive interior walls into a gallery of student-created art. Company representatives said the initiative was meant to bring local voices into the workplace and give employees a daily reminder of the communities they serve. By placing student artwork in a professional environment, Spectrum aimed to blend creativity with corporate space in a meaningful way.

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All student submissions were commissioned, a move that ensured every participant was compensated for their work. Each student also received financial awards, reinforcing the value of creative labor and professional contribution. Spectrum officials said the decision reflected the quality and thoughtfulness of the submissions, as well as the company’s commitment to supporting young artists.

The artwork will be installed digitally throughout the Henrietta facility. Students’ original designs are being transformed into large-format prints and architectural applications designed to fit the scale and layout of the building. These pieces will be integrated into hallways, gathering spaces, and other interior areas, making them visible to employees and visitors alike.

Four students received top-tier Commissioned Artist Awards for pieces selected for the most prominent locations in the building. Tri Minh Au earned the $2,250 Main Mural Award for “An Evening Connected,” which portrays a rooftop gathering that reflects human connection in an urban setting. Three additional students—Harley Bermudez, Gemma Delella, and SOTA graduate Daniela Manivong—each received $1,000 awards for works highlighting how connectivity strengthens communities and fosters a sense of belonging.

Other students were also recognized with awards ranging from $250 to $500. Their artwork explored a variety of themes tied to connectivity, both locally and globally. Xpytial Conner showcased recognizable Rochester landmarks, while Lucy Everson focused on broadband expansion. Cheyla Morejon Martinez illustrated internet infrastructure, emphasizing the unseen systems that keep communities linked.

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Additional winning pieces came from Nellie Griepsma, Navieyana Ofray, Vision Smith, and Shandise Smith Simms. Their designs touched on topics such as satellite communication, neighborhood-level services, and the ways technology supports everyday life. Together, the collection reflects a diverse and thoughtful look at how connectivity shapes modern society.

Beyond the visual impact, the project offered students hands-on experience with professional art submission, commissioning, and commercial installation. For many, it marked a first step into large-scale public art. The completed installation will stand as a long-term showcase of student talent, creativity, and the power of local voices inside one of the region’s newest corporate spaces.