(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Oct. 30, 2026) — Molecules, science-inspired designs and other colorful details help bring the walls of Clendenin Elementary School’s STEAM Academy to life. Behind the artwork is James O’Rourke, a painter with El Paso ISD’s Maintenance Department who found a way to turn his lifelong passion for art into something students can enjoy every day.

For O’Rourke, painting is more than a job. It is an opportunity to share his creativity with the community and help students feel a greater sense of pride in their school.

“I love that I can give back to the community in my own way,” O’Rourke said. “Kids will be able to see this and be able to enjoy it, maybe make them feel proud of their campus.”

O’Rourke’s artistic journey began when he was a child, developing an interest in painting and drawing that continued into adulthood. He took art classes at a community college, earned an associate degree and pursued opportunities to turn his creative interests into a career.

In Dallas, he worked for a special events company, helping create props and scenery. After moving to El Paso, he continued taking on freelance projects while working to establish himself professionally.

SEE THE WORK: Inside the Murals of EPISD Painter James O’Rourke

Eventually, O’Rourke joined El Paso ISD. His early assignments involved more traditional painting work, including painting doors and completing touch-ups around district facilities. Over time, he found opportunities to put his artistic skills to use in a different way, creating murals, campus logos and other hand-painted designs at schools throughout the district.

His work has reached campuses including Hartley, Bobby Joe Hill PK-8 and Tinajero, among others.

At Clendenin Elementary, O’Rourke worked with campus leaders to understand their vision before developing ideas for a mural reflecting the school’s identity as a STEAM Academy. O’Rourke’s process begins with conversation and imagination, followed by sketches on paper that help him determine how to bring the design to life on a campus wall.

“James’ artwork helped bring Clendenin’s STEAM identity to life in a creative and engaging way, said Raul Mendoza, Principal of Clendenin STEAM Academy. “His work adds character to our campus and gives students another opportunity to connect with the ideas and learning that make our school unique.”

O’Rourke describes himself as old-school when it comes to his craft. Rather than relying heavily on digital tools, he prefers to draw and paint by hand, taking an idea from an initial sketch to a finished piece through his own artistic process.

For O’Rourke, the opportunity to create artwork for students is something he does not take for granted.

“I thank God that I’ve been given the artistic license to complete this work, and I hope it makes our students happy and excited,” he said.

His creativity extends beyond the school day. In his free time, O’Rourke continues to paint and explore fine arts, including an interest in creating found art. Music is another source of inspiration, and he enjoys attending local shows that can spark ideas for his next creative project.

Through his work across El Paso ISD, O’Rourke brings together his passion for art and his role in supporting district campuses. Each mural and design offers students a chance to experience a little more creativity in the places where they learn, grow and build their futures.