Dist. 47, Lakeside Legacy Foundation celebrate arts in education
On Friday, May 1, from 5 to 8 p.m., Lakeside Legacy Arts Park will open its doors to Crystal Lake Elementary District 47 parents, families and staff as well as to the Crystal Lake community to view a bountiful array of artistic works from District 47 students.
For nearly a decade, Lakeside and District 47 have partnered on the student art show and each year, the cause for celebration becomes increasingly more important. As school budgets continue to shrink, dedicated arts programs in public schools are becoming a rarity.
In fact, many McHenry County elementary school districts do not currently offer art as part of their curriculum; a decision that has sometimes been met with controversy. Recently, parents from a neighboring school district petitioned to reinstate elementary art programs, claiming that, while volunteer-run art programs are popular, they are not of the same caliber as programs taught by certified art teachers.
"District 47 is fortunate that our board and administration understand the importance of the arts for our students and support our programs with qualified, certified staff," says Kristen Cannon, South Elementary assistant principal and art program coordinator. "This art show is a wonderful opportunity to share the hard work and dedication of our experienced art teachers and to celebrate the creative talents of our young people."
This year's exhibit will showcase a wide range of student artwork as chosen by District 47 art teachers. Techniques studied at all grade levels include printmaking, weaving, sculpture, ceramics, painting and drawing, as well as collage and digital imagery at the middle school level. Pieces chosen will reflect the diversity of art media, cultural learning, artistic influences and a higher level art learning and philosophy.
Sue Jensen, South Elementary art teacher and longtime art show coordinator, says, "Art rocks! I get so excited when I see the light bulb turn on or when my students break out into applause after I demonstrate an art technique or concept. That makes my day!"
According to District 47 art teachers, the value of an arts education is immeasurable because art invites self-expression and provides an opportunity for students to explore different ways of seeing things. They also say it can also bolster the self-esteem of students who struggle academically but who may shine in the area of creative self-expression.
Besides instilling a sense of pride for students, teachers, parents and families, public art displays can also positively impact and even enlist support for the arts from the surrounding community. To draw on the talents of these budding young artists, local businesses often find ways to encourage and inspire students to continue to pursue their passion.
Douglas Automotive of Crystal Lake, for example, has hosted a yearly themed contest that challenges students to design a car that can drive in space or swim in the ocean. In addition, the Crystal Lake Public Library offers a bookmark design contest and supports the arts for youth through a multitude of programming all year long.
"We appreciate the opportunity to showcase the creative talents of our students and staff at a fine venue like Lakeside and know the families of students as well as the residents of Crystal Lake will enjoy the exhibit and a fun evening," says Denise Barr, District 47's coordinator of community relations.
Besides student artwork, the First Friday event will feature live choral performances by Lundahl Middle and Glacier Ridge Elementary students, solo and small group band ensembles, and a piano performance by Woods Creek music teacher Gayle Dirksen.
The lobby exhibition is by Alexander Leigh Center for Autism. The May 1 art show also offers complimentary light fare and a cash bar will be available. Donations are appreciated as they support the protection and preservation of Lakeside Legacy Arts Park and the Historic Dole Mansion for community use.
Student artwork will remain on display at Lakeside until Wednesday, May 27. Families and the general public are invited to stop by to view the exhibit weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Lakeside Legacy Foundation is at 401 Country Club Road in Crystal Lake. For information, visit www.LakesideLegacy.org.