Note: Sue’s column will usually appear every Friday; she was unavailable last week but will return to the Friday column this Friday. Thanks so much for supporting her wonderful work. As you will see, she is worth every contribution and will put it to beautiful use. Jon
News from the Art Room 14-Summer Edition
August already; when the calendar page turns to August, most teachers I know kick back into gear for the first day. I do not know any teachers who do not spend lots of their money gearing up to ensure the kids in front of them have what they need to succeed. We are so blessed to have so much help from the Army of Good. The year’s first coveted “yellow box” arrived the other day. The box is a collection of breakfast bars sold by Amazon, and the students get excited when they see it. Florence often sends us a yellow box and sometimes an anonymous donor. We Thank them both!
I have gotten some of the most exciting donations ever during the last few months. Margaret from CA is a dedicated supporter of our program and has repeatedly sent boxes of beautiful items. Last week, she sent us a box filled with currency from around the world. She explained that she used to travel a great deal, and this collection built up over the years. There are so many things I want to do with this collection. The students that were around and I began looking up the coins and notes. There are so many exotic places that mostly inner-city kids only dream of visiting someday. I am going to create a project based on the artwork of currency. The printing process and how the coins and bills are designed. These are things I have yet to give that much thought to. I am excited to learn as well.
The Eckhardt’s are a local couple who have been incredibly positive and supportive. This week, they dropped off a tremendously helpful donation that included foam, blinds, plaster, lovely figurines, and softballs. When I see an item, I often guess which student will grab it first! I cannot wait to see what we do with the softballs. Rick called them blank canvases, and that sent my mind spinning. It would be fun to hear if any of you have ideas! They got to Proctor Theater and saw the student artwork exhibition on display. Rick was kind enough to send me photos he took while there! Many people have told me they have seen the display, and we thank Proctors for the opportunity. Proctors Theater 432 State Street Schenectady, NY 12305. Stop over if you are in the area!
As we return to full-time operation, I eagerly seek donations of anything you think could be turned into art! Wire, rolls of gauze, plaster, shutters, glassware, paint, canvas, printing materials, maps, stamps, sandpaper, wood scraps, and all the other amazing things you can think of would be so helpful. We are fortunate to have a dedicated husband of a staff person who collects discarded paint for us on recycling days! The cans are often nearly full and destined for the dump, but now they’re a valuable resource for our students. The cost of paint and everything else is through the roof. Your support is invaluable, whether it’s a donation, a note, or simply enjoying watching the students work. We couldn’t do it without you and can’t wait to see what the new school year brings!
Those who have been with us for a while will be pleased to hear that Hser Nay, who graduated this year, has just passed her driving test and is about to start college. She’s been working hard this summer to buy a cheap, reliable car. Her ambition is to become a lawyer, and with her determination, the world better watch out! Her success is a testament to the impact of our program, and we couldn’t be prouder. I love hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. My email is [email protected].
Have a blessed day!
Sue
ND-BG
2600 Albany Street
Schenectady, New York 12304