Far "Go" Green MATBUS Student Artwork Wrap

Kaylee Trana

Unveiled in 2024, the “Far ‘Go’ Green!” MATBUS Student Artwork Wrap celebrates youth creativity and sustainability awareness in Fargo. The vibrant bus design traveling the F-M metro was created by 12-year-old Kaylee Trana, a seventh grader at Ben Franklin Middle School.

Kaylee’s design features playful red pandas, a nod to the beloved residents of the Red River Zoo, interacting with Fargo’s urban development. Her artwork, crowned with the slogan “Far ‘Go’ Green!” invites the community to reflect on environmental stewardship and climate resiliency in a fun, accessible way. Kaylee received a $500 prize for her top-ranked submission and the honor of seeing her art displayed on a MATBUS.

The project emerged from a community call inviting Fargo students in grades six through 12 to create original artwork that shared a message of environmental responsibility. A panel of reviewers scored submissions based on artistic quality, message clarity, relevance to Fargo and suitability for a bus wrap format.

Two additional student artists were recognized in the competition. Mya Houston, a ninth grader at Fargo Public Schools Virtual Academy, received second place and $300 for her piece titled “Conserve, Protect, Create.” Elizabeth Toomey, a ninth grade homeschool student, earned third place and $200 for her submission “Grow Wild Together.”

This youth art initiative was a collaboration between the Sustainability and Resiliency Committee, Fargo Youth Initiative and the Arts and Culture Commission. The top selections were affirmed by the Arts and Culture Commission on March 27, 2024, and unanimously approved by the City Commission on April 15, 2024. Installation and production were funded through renewable energy revenues from The City’s Solid Waste Utility Fund.

The “Far ‘Go’ Green!” bus wrap is a moving reminder that climate resiliency begins at home—with bold ideas and young artists leading the way.