Before anything else, I want to thank everyone who purchased items from last week’s wish list. In less than 24 hours, the list was empty. A few people also sent Amazon gift cards to my email. Thank you does not seem enough; I am honored and profoundly grateful.

I love to see the faces of kids on the first day in the art room when they see the latest donated items. I often know who will be delighted by certain items and cannot wait to see what they do with them.

Studio Art uses beads and jewelry to make mosaic designs in adorable wooden frames. Every so often, a project works far beyond expectations.

The sewing machines are in full swing, the art club after school is packed daily, and the ideas are flowing. The sculptures are emerging, and the prints are being processed! It is a happy place again after the quiet of the summer.

I love how excited the students are to start new work and the amount of time they devote to their projects. Some come before school daily and during free time when they can. I can watch the stress level decrease as they work. Kids need that so much right now. There is a whole lot of crazy in the world.

Thank you to all who sent boxes filled with goodies this week. We are putting it all to practical use! Glassware is exceptionally popular with the art club kids learning to make pop art food sculptures.

The other day, I was working on Surrealism, and one student said, “Wait! I get it! It’s art that messes with your head!” We are starting each class with an art history minute this year. A different painting or style each day. Small doses of valuable information. So far, it seems like a painless way to add more content.

I am still seeking donations of everything you feel could be turned into art! Wire, 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. If you are local and have smallish pieces of furniture you would like to see repurposed, we are always looking! The students love to make old things new!

I love hearing from you. My email is [email protected]. 

Have a blessed day!

Sue

ND-BG

2600 Albany Street

Schenectady, New York 12304