January 9th, 2014 616.365.2227
BYRON CENTER STUDENTS PUT ART SKILLS ON DISPLAY AT KENT ISD
GRAND RAPIDS – Traditional art from Byron Center Public Schools artists is now on view at Kent ISD. Pencil drawings, paintings, digital art and more can be viewed in the lobby at 2930 Knapp NE during business hours now through February 1st.
The student artists in grades K-12 study a variety of mediums. Teachers Rachel Ambroso from Countryside Elementary, Jon LaBeau from Brown Elementary, Molly Marshall from Nickels Intermediate, Elizabeth Wilson Fischer from Marshall Elementary and Janine Campbell from Byron Center West Middle School help students explore elements of design, a variety of materials, art history and creativity. “The curriculum is centered on exploring how art is integrated in all aspects of our lives and how we can share our experiences with others through the use of visuals in a variety of media,” said Campbell.
Each instructor works to incorporate academics like history and social studies with art. “Through art and education I hope to facilitate critical thinking and creative problem solving skills.” says Fisher. Her students’ work includes mediums ranging from photography to abstract objects.
Cultural and history studies are evident throughout all of the work on display and are expressed differently by each student. “The work shown should all reflect growing knowledge and aptitude in design in an abstract sense as well as growing historical and cultural knowledge,” says LaBeau.
The Byron Center Public Schools art display is one of a series during the year from schools within Kent ISD. Forest Hills High School will have art displayed in February. Other schools with displays this year include Caledonia High School, Plymouth Christian High School and Kentwood Public Schools. Kent ISD also participates in the annual Congressional Arts Competition, serving as local judges and occasionally offering purchase awards to student winners.