On Thursday, November 20th, students, families and staff gathered at Windy River Elementary for their annual Art Night, a special day where students showcase works of art that they have created so far this year. Some of the classrooms have been preparing for this night since the beginning of the school year; studying techniques and principles of various art forms.
As guests arrived, they were warmly welcomed by student greeters who guided families to the evening’s displays. One of the stops was the monthly Art Board Challenge. Students helped disguise a turkey that was trying to stay hidden for Thanksgiving.
Other pieces from the day were inspired by different artists, time periods, styles, cultures, film, fashion, and came in many different shapes. Proudly displayed in the fourth and fifth/sixth grade halls were cartoon character drawings, oil paintings, clay sculptures, colored-pencil creations, and more. The 4th Grade classrooms went for a fully immersive approach, filling their classrooms with projects and neon lights. In other classrooms, guests were encouraged to craft along with their students.
Some projects that really stood out include the Tim Burton-styled self-portraits, Monet-inspired paintings, and cultural art; such as representations of African tribal masks, Mayan temples, and Diwali Rangoli symbols.
Art is one of the many ways people are connected, events like Art Night help make these sometimes invisible connections easier for students to see. As they begin to notice and create these connections on their own, they naturally contribute to a more welcoming, united school environment.