(Sue Silverstein is a cherished friend and the Art And Community Services Teacher at Bishop Gibbons High School in Schenectady, New York. Her column, which chronicles the amazing art program she brought to the school, runs weekly on Fridays. Her program is being closely watched – and admired – nationwide. She has shown us that the TikTok generation also loves creativity and art. Thanks, Army of Good, for supporting this wonderful program.)
Notes from the Art room…
This was a hectic week in the art room. So many exceptional things happened.
The last few weeks of the year are always busy and full of activities. I was talking with some 2024 graduates about how they lost their 8th-grade graduation just four years ago when the world turned upside down in 2020.
This class cherishes the celebrations and traditions even more because of them. This week, the Festival of the Arts was held. The festival is an evening event that combines art, music, and senior student presentations. Yesterday, the students and I set up nearly 500 pieces of student work and took it apart this morning.
The kids were so proud of their work and of having their families and friends see their art. It was a fantastic event, and I love bragging about the students’ work.
A few students were putting in overtime to finish significant sculptures and paintings in time; there were a few that we decided to display as works in progress. I always explain that we need access to the kinds of materials that we have. Families are in awe when they learn about the Army of Good and all the support they provide. Last week, Jon posted a photo of a clown painting done by one of the seniors. Christina emailed me and offered to buy the painting.
My student is beyond happy that someone was willing to buy his art. What an excellent way to finish his year.
Thank you, Christina; your kindness just changed my life. He thinks he’ll add an art class in college.
Two of the whimsical cake series were finished just in time. Thank you, Andrea, for much of the glassware. The Tea Party, by 8th-grade student Yoruichi, is a teacher’s favorite this year.
The base is a ceiling tile. The beverages were created from painted melted hot glue. The sugar cubes are Styrofoam and a seashell. The toast is cut from a foam mattress pad and painted. The cake is cut from upholstery foam and frosted with a plaster wall patch. The jam was made from seed beads painted to look like blackberry compote. Even the glass cherry came from an Army of Good treasure box. I would guess that the donations of many of you became part of that creation.
Another favorite is the celestial cake creation. Built By Marie-Chrissy and Natalia, it tells the story of a young girl and her star-filled dreams. The cake is made from recycled cardboard and paper mâché. Most of the paint was rescued from a recycling event. The yarn came from a local farm. The girl cake topper was made with plaster and fabric. I believe the hair was lifted (I am told with full permission) from the doll of a younger sister.
This explains just how lucky the students are to have your donations! You make art happen!
If you want to help, we are particularly looking for wood scraps, canvas, wire, plaster cloth, and anything else you think would make cool art!
Thank you for all you do for ND-BG students!
My email is [email protected].
ND-BG School
2600 Albany St.
Schenectady, NY 12304
