Rachel Carson Elementary students show artistic talent
April 21, 2009
By Christopher Huber
Fierce. Mesmerizing. Vibrant. Delightful.
Parents and friends used those and many other inspiring phrases to show their appreciation for the Carson Elementary student-artists’ work April 16 at the first ever art walk event.
Chloe Teo picks out colorful bits of clay for an activity. Photo by Christopher Huber
As they perused the aisles of paintings, sculptures and drawings, event-goers who were particularly impressed with a child’s piece affixed critique cards with the compliments. At $5 each, card sales brought in $2,500 for Carson’s Discover Art program, which is run by PTSA and professional volunteers, said PTSA event organizer Julie Carper.
“It’s great to create a community event that celebrates the artistic creativity of the children,” said parent Lars Knudsen after he attached a critique card to his daughter’s artwork.
The Carson Art Walk featured 33 exhibits of work from all grade levels. They included student renditions of famous artists such as Monet, Roy Lichtenstein, as well as Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Cat Eye.”
Local artists, including Issaquah-based MISKA displayed personal work and demonstrated their craft for anyone interested.
While 400 community members enjoyed refreshments and viewing the renditions of Lightenstein’s “pop art” and Giacometti’s sculptures, dozens of students crafted take-home art projects from clay in the school’s art room.
The room is the only one of its kind in the Lake Washington School District and has enabled Discover Art volunteers like Marci Knutsen to develop a stronger arts program for the students, Carper said. The facility has a new kiln and a handful of pottery wheels.
“Before, the kids had to do the projects in their classroom, so this is completely different,” Carper said.
The throughout the year, the classes take turns learning about famous artists and working on various projects with Knutsen and other volunteers.
“It isn’t just arts and crafts,” Carper said. “We’re trying really hard to integrate art throughout.”
Reporter Christopher Huber can be reached at 392-6434, ext. 242, or chuber@isspress.com.
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