Local High School Students Bring New Pizza Shop’s Brand to Life with Vibrant Mural
By Delfina Witis Hughes
9/27/24
In a remarkable fusion of creativity and community spirit, two Olympia High School students, Amira Martin & Charlotte Jaehnel, have transformed a wall of Grand Central Pizza Station with a mural that not only captures the essence of the brand but also brings a vibrant, Instagram-worthy attraction to the local dining scene.
The project began as a unique summer opportunity offered by the veteran-owned pizza shop, which saw potential in the large blank wall space to create something special. The Brand has roots in New York and Orlando, and the owners invited the students to craft a piece of artwork that would tie together the diverse elements of their Grand Central Pizza Station brand.
“We wanted to involve the local community in a way that was meaningful,” said Erika Rommel. “When we first met with the students, we took them through our Brand’s story—how we’re bringing New York-style pizza to life here at Grand Central Pizza Station. We empowered them to figure out how to bring it all together in a mural.”
The concept wasn’t easy. The challenge was to weave together the shop’s New York roots—symbolized by the use of a New York WaterMaker to replicate the unique taste of NYC water—with the tropical elements of Florida. The students also incorporated playful elements like “pizza angel wings,” designed as an "Instagramable" spot where customers can pose for pictures, adding a fun and interactive touch to the mural. #instaworthy
Amira Martin & Charlotte Jaehnel posed together with their beautiful masterpiece.
“When we saw their eyes light up and ideas firing off left and right during that first meeting, we knew we had something special,” Erika recalled. “Their determination, creativity, attention to detail, and even their sense of humor really came through in the final piece. They even found a way to honor the memory of a classmate, which added a deeply personal layer to the artwork.”
Tools used to bring the mural to life…
The mural, which now proudly adorns the Grand Central Pizza Station’s wall, has become a talking point in the community, drawing in curious locals and visitors alike. The students’ work not only highlights their artistic talent but also serves as a testament to the power of community and the importance of local support.
“These two young women are incredibly special, and I’m excited to watch where their journey in life takes them,” Erika added. “They’ve left a lasting mark on our shop and on our hearts.”
As the new pizza shop opens its doors, the mural stands as a vibrant symbol of creativity, collaboration, and the blending of different cultures and flavors—a true reflection of the brand’s unique identity.
