Sue Silverstein is the art teacher at Bishop Gibbons High School in Schenectady, New York; with your help, she has put together one of the country’s most innovative and successful art programs. Her students turn off their cell phones and line up to come to her classrooms after hours. Her column runs here every Friday, and I am lucky and proud to know her and have her column here. Thanks to the good people who donated supplies and discarded things, which Sue and her students turned into beautiful art. School is in session again, and Sue, an amazing friend and teacher, needs your help. She doesn’t want money; she wants the old stuff you forget about or throw out. – jon katz
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News from the Art Room – A Little of Everything All at Once
Patricia sent a box this morning that was full of such cool stuff! It was about all in use a few hours after arrival. There were playful alphabet blocks that went directly into a sculpture, Halloween fabrics, Christmas things, buttons and stuffing, and so much more. There were glue sticks!!!!! People are amazing!
Yesterday, Dale delivered a carload of wood scraps while in town for an appointment.
Lorry sent the students a box of mostly new items that she thought they would enjoy. That was an understatement, they were squealing with delight. With the cool weather on the way, warm socks and gloves are always a help!
Linda sent the loveliest hand-painted postcard. She wrote that folks who contribute feel a part of our community. I feel that as well. There are so many people I have never been blessed to meet who have supported my programs and students for more than six years. I read the letters to the students, and they feel connected. It is amazing to them.
Last night was teacher night and I always enjoy meeting the families of the students. I also explain how the program donations work, and they are so thankful for your help. I love to show off the kids’ work!
A fun assignment for middle school is one that I saved from something one of my children did for his art class. We talked about the painting and what it would feel like to be inside the artwork. Then, I pull out the 15-year-old painting and they all want to try and take photos. Great fun and hopefully they have learned a bit!
The bead mosaics are almost finished, and we have great plans to create a jeweled tree suspended on fishing lines and tied to a hoop on the floor for the holidays. Watch for photos and wish us luck!
I appreciate all who send snacks as well. I could not help these students without all of you and your kind hearts.
Sending love and prayers to anyone in the path of the raging storms tonight. We count our blessings every day. May you all stay safe and be guarded from destruction.
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