Sue Silverstein is a beloved friend and a teacher at Bishop Gibbons High School in Schenectady, N.Y. I am proud to publish her weekly column (usually on Fridays) on my blog. She is a brilliant and loving teacher and runs the most creative and exciting art program I’ve ever heard of. Thanks for supporting her fantastic work. – Jon

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Notes from the Art Room

Tears this morning. He was one of my all-time favorites as we spoke on his last day of classes as a senior. I said, cherish the moments in your life that bring you to tears at the thought of leaving. They become part of you forever.

This special person is intensely creative, intelligent, hardworking, and kind. He has created exceptional artwork. One of the best and worst things about teaching art or anything else is saying goodbye.

It is best because of the pride and hopes for the future. It is worst because you must let them go and pray they will be safe, happy, and successful. We tie-dyed shirts this week; it is a custom here at ND-BG that graduates dye and sign their uniform shirts for the last day of class.

The photo of the shirts hanging on the fence outside brought back memories of other years’ classes and students. One of the other staff members stopped in the art room mid-tie-dye chaos, and I just said; it is a happy and joy-filled mess, at least.

Isaiah and Jordan are holding the latest in the found object painting series. The objects come from everywhere. The members of the Army of Good always succeed. There are some exciting projects in progress with glass and teacups. Stay tuned.

The clown painting is a response to a question I posed in painting class: How do you paint grief? 12th grade Jasai is the artist. I felt as if he nailed it. So many people hide their grief and paint on a happy face.

I am so grateful to the Army of Good. It amazes me every day. People are just so kind. I have a few special projects planned for June. I have been saving some of the things that you sent.

Thank you for the notes, canvas, and boxes of treasures this week! We could only do what we do with you.

I always seek donations of paint, canvas, stones, plaster cloth, wood scraps, and anything else you think would be amazing. My email is

[email protected]

The address is

ND-BG

2600 Albany Street