Fine ARTs Festival

Music, poetry, and...ART!

For the first time ever, this year ICSB's Fine Arts Festival included visual art!

It was an exciting event to plan. I had each of my art students submit at least on piece of art to display during the event. I was surprised when several of my students wanted to show 2 pieces of work! After pulling teeth to get them to do their projects, my heart was warmed that they wanted to show off their work.

My helpers and I spent all day Friday setting up art in the back of the gym. We turned the gym into a wonderful art gallery! Mobiles hung from the basketball goals, temporary walls were put up to display art, and special pieces were placed around the room on ledges and tables. The art added a special atmosphere to the gym.

I wanted to have a bit of art judging during the festival. I recruited a variety of 3 judges. First, a freelance photographer and graphic designer. Second, a Hungarian woman who loves beauty. And the third, with no art background, a male teacher willing to offer his opinions. They worked together for 2 hours before the concert to decide which artists deserved awards.

Minutes before the concert, people were milling around the art, and students were taking pictures of their work. During the concert, we heard from the middle school and high school bands and choirs. A few students recited poetry. Just before intermission, I took the stage..."And the winners are...!!" I was so proud of every piece of art on display, but I was especially excited to announce the hardworking winners. I handed out certificates and placed ribbons next to the winning pieces.

We enjoyed snacks at intermission, and I invited guests down to the art room to show off the newly finished mural. Last year, the art students started a beautiful wall mural in the art room. It displays many different art periods. My high school Art 2 students worked hard to finish the mural for Fine Arts Festival.

The night was so special for me. In watching how hard my students work, I was proud to show their work in a professional manner. Especially because I am leaving in just a month, it was so memorable for me to see all the art together one last time.