Creativity is flourishing at Marathon Middle High School as students in the school’s Fine Art program are currently putting the finishing touches on illustrations for a new children’s book that will soon be available to the public.
The project, led by art teacher and celebrated local artist Shannon Wiley, has students working together to create original artwork that will accompany the story in a professionally published book. Once completed, the book will be available locally at area galleries and at Sweet Savannah's Bake Shop, as well as online through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform.
Proceeds from the book will go directly back into the school’s Fine Art program, helping expand opportunities for student artists at Marathon Middle High.
“This project gives students the chance to see their artwork become part of something real that the community can enjoy,” Wiley said. “It’s exciting for them to know their creativity can make an impact beyond the classroom.”
Wiley, a well-known artist throughout the Florida Keys, is known for bringing energy, enthusiasm and hands-on opportunities into his classroom. His passion for art and teaching has helped inspire students to explore their creativity while developing real artistic skills.
The children’s book illustration project is just one of several initiatives Wiley has introduced to engage students and strengthen the school’s growing Fine Art program. By connecting classroom learning with real-world creative projects, he continues to spark interest in art among students who may never have considered themselves artists before.
With the book’s release expected soon, the community will have the opportunity not only to enjoy a locally created children’s story, but also to support the next generation of young artists in the process.
Additional information about the book’s release and availability will be announced in the coming weeks.