As the audience members filed into the Janet Root Theatre, eager for the production of "A Chorus Line," they marveled at the kaleidoscope of origami butterflies floating above them. The butterflies, one to symbolize each grade-level at Shorecrest, appeared to rise from the 6-foot sculpture of an open hand, releasing them into the space overhead. The installation, entitled “As One, We Go On,” was the first of its kind at Shorecrest and is just one of the many marks Casey Reich leaves on the campus.
The installation was the culminating project of Casey's year-long independent study of Architectural Concepts & Design. "Toward the end I focused on the integration of design into spaces," Casey says. The theatre lobby, a gathering place for all members of the school community, was a natural fit for the display.
"This past year has been rough for a lot of people, there have been tragedies in our community," Casey explains. "I wanted to do something to symbolize the moving on, letting go and moving on to something better."
Casey completed the independent study and final project under the supervision of Upper School art teacher Aaron Sober. "He has been a great mentor who helped me discover my own potential, always pushing me to take on ambitious projects," says Casey. "He has always been there to support me, whether it be by lending me tools or giving me guidance."
Similarly, Mr. Sober has great appreciation and respect for Casey. "He's interested in every part of the design process," writes Mr. Sober. "He has the soul of an artist."
Art and design have been Casey's passions as long as he can remember. While he is adept at many of the software programs that create digital art, Casey is a craftsman at heart and loves to create by hand. "It helps me understand how things work," he says.