The library at Cheyne Middle School was painted with a mural showing a "safe harbour". This theme, with all of its elements, was inspired by the book, Harbour of Hope, by Wayne Hulley and symbolizes important objectives and aspirations adopted by the library and by Cheyne Middle School. This mural was especially designed for middle school students with symbolism, colours and stylization that is appropriate for the ages of the students who come to this school.

SYMBOLISM: The symbolism in this mural is meant to be general and is opened to varied interpretation by the many individuals who will visit the library. The small boat in the center of the safe harbour is being loaded with cargo before it goes out into the turbulent seas. Likewise, students at Cheyne Middle School can gather knowledge, skills, experiences, friendships and much more before they move ahead to high school and beyond. The train, loaded with cargo, could represent all those who support students such as teachers, mentors, parents, coaches, other students and more. The homes that rim the safe harbour with their watchful windows suggest a supportive community. A lighthouse shines a guiding light that welcomes students and also sees them off into the world. A large compass face suggests choices that students must make as they choose their directions in the world. And, clouds shaped like continents represent the world beyond the boarders of our own neighbourhood. The ancient library of Ephesus reminds us of our history and the time-honoured tradition of our quest for meaning, purpose and direction. Likewise, the stars of the universe suggest the unlimited nature of our futures through its unlimited boarders. The north star shone direction for the explorers of our past, continues to point northward today and will undoubtedly offer direction until the end of our time. For some viewers the light rays cast by the sun suggest a spiritual presence. Again, some viewers will understand that the small boat is receiving cargo before a journey while others may understand the boat to be arriving home with precious and varied cargo to share after a long adventure. What cargo will you seek to carry? Courage? Gratitude? Self-Control? Honesty? Attitude? Respect? Strong Character? The open ended nature of the symbols used in this mural were carefully chosen to suggest varied meanings for different viewers.

The concept drawing: