In February 1909, International Women’s Day became a day to celebrate, but in 1946, Italian women’s organizations began seeking a symbol that could represent them as a group. Then the idea of the mimosa plant emerged.

Their bright yellow, fragrant blooms signify joy and warmth, and they are always the first to arrive when spring comes. The flower often represents renewal, prosperity, and the sun. What could be a more perfect flower to celebrate this day?

Woodland Worldwide came up with the idea of celebrating Women’s Day with a painting. As a women-run organization led by Meghan Hatch Geary, she invited another women-run organization to join her in this celebration. Anna Muharem, the advisor of Hawk Wings, was involved in this project to help organize a group of people to sit down and paint the symbol of Women’s Day under the direction of Eileen Portelance. The collaboration between these groups made the event feel even more powerful, bringing together diverse and different perspectives and talents into a shared experience.

Throughout the project, Portelance thoughtfully and carefully instructed the large group of attendees. Guiding them with precision and excellence as they attempted their own versions of painting mimosa flowers.

“The vibe in the room was so lovely. And when students are engaged like that–well, it’s a teacher’s dream come true. I also really loved being able to collaborate with Mrs. Portelance and Mrs. Muharem,” said Geary

***The entire event took a lot of time and planning different types of departments were involved in the planning. Portelance worked with the Fine Arts Booster Club to get funds for the supplies. Muharem worked with student members to get mimosa cards designed by her for advisories to fill out for Women’s Day. D’Alexander helped greatly with getting the word out on the TV screens all over the school. Misuraca helped with facilitating the poster that students were able to reach out and sign up for.

Watercolor paint is one of the trickiest but most forgiving types of paint out there. Too much water and the paper can tear; too little, and your brush strokes become streaky and untidy. But the beauty of watercolor is that you can always add more color and build on what you have.  

With acrylic paint, you can layer it again and again, and it will still remain pigmented and vibrant. Learning about these techniques added another layer of appreciation for the artwork being created in the room.

Before the painting even started, a simple but carefully thought-out presentation was given to the group of young ladies and gentlemen. It provided a brief but meaningful history on why we were painting these flowers and what they represent to women across generations.

This introduction set the tone for the entire event, reminding everyone that this was more than just painting—it was about honoring a shared symbol of strength and unity among peers.

With six watercolor sets and a large group of people with different talents, levels, and interpretations, artists were made. Some who attended had never even painted a day in their lives, but you would never have known if you looked at all the finished paintings side by side. Each piece reflected individuality while still connecting back to the same powerful symbol.

By the end of the event, the room was filled not only with artwork but with a sense of accomplishment, creativity, community, and food. What started as a simple “paint and snack” gathering became an experience that celebrated expression, history, and the strength found in coming together as individuals.