Balancing Arts: Neligh-Oakdale Junior Paints Warrior Mural

Kasi Grosserode often balances her love of art and music. This week, the Neligh-Oakdale junior put the two together to paint a mural in the band room.

"It's unbelievable," said band teacher Nate Metschke. "She's an incredible talent, and I'm very proud of the mural and of her. She's created a lasting legacy in my classroom, and I'm grateful for her."

Kasi, who is the daughter of Loren and Shelly Grosserode, spent 11 hours Thursday and Friday painting the mural, which was all completed freehand. It features a Warrior with a piano and drum headdress, along with an inspirational quote.

Kasi, who also painted a mural on Main Street several years ago, said Metschke started talking to her about a mural toward the end of the school year. During all-star marching band band camp in June, they spent a lot of time in the Norfolk Junior High, which has positive inspirational quotes throughout the hallway, Metschke said. 

That's where they found the quote by Ruth Ross - "There are only three colors, 10 digits and seven notes: it's what you do with them that's important."

As for the design itself, Metschke left that up to his artist. "He wanted it band related but also to have school pride," Kasi said. "This is what I came up with."

Metschke said Kasi's talented in both area - art and music. She won best of show at the ESU 8 art show this year and was selected to Class C All-State band. 

"She's a great kid, really something," Metschke said. "I stood there and watched her freehand this project with a pencil. It's unbelievable to watch someone with this much talent. We are the Warrior, and we're really proud of that."

Kasi finished the project Friday mid-afternoon.

"I'd really like to thank Mr. Metschke for giving me this opportunity and to Mrs. Pfanstiel for letting me use her paints," Kasi said. "It's quite an honor to do this."