The MES Art Club has become a popular hub of creativity and exploration for 65 students in grades 4-6. Students say they enjoy the projects and the camaraderie of working with their peers.
Art teacher Kim Audino runs the club. She says she enjoys giving students opportunities to go beyond the curriculum they receive during the school day.
“Members of the Art Club build their artistic skills and are given an opportunity to explore different mediums beyond what is offered in the art curriculum, which targets the NYS Art Learning Standards, said Audino. “I focus on designing innovative projects that stimulate creativity involving problem-solving techniques to help promote self-expression and confidence.”
Her approach was evident during a recent meeting involving students constructing gingerbread houses. As students clustered around a table ladened with graham crackers, candies and icing, Audino cued the art club members to ask “why” questions as they received instructions.
“I’m going to hand out small containers of icing. Ask me why,” she said.
“WHY,” the group responded in unison.
“Because the icing hardens quickly, and you will need it to stay soft during construction,” Audino responded.
Instruction continued in that fashion, with Audino encouraging the students to ask questions about horizontal vs. vertical placement and other construction tips. She talked about patience being essential during the creative process and then prompted the students to look at the candies and brainstorm creative ideas on using them. With their hands raised, club members offered up half a dozen ideas before returning to their tables to get to work.
Club members say they look forward to their meetings.
“I like all the projects that we do. I think they are really fun and creative. I’ve learned about how to use oil pastels and nice ways to use a paintbrush.” -Brooke M.
“I’m really passionate about art, and I enjoy spending time with my friends doing something we all enjoy. I have always had a thing for art, and I like to explore.” -Mackenzie E.
“I really like doing the art, and the best way to get practice is to come to art club. And, I like being with my friends.” -Kitana M.
Audino says students will create Mardi Gras paper mache masks, construct their own Zampoñas instruments, and create Navajo sand paintings, Mexican medal foil tiles, Japanese wind socks, New Zealand Maori jewelry, and textured clay plates inspired by nature in the months ahead.
She appreciates the community support for the work she is doing with children. Donations from parents, Price Chopper, Valley Market, and others supplement the materials she uses for the art club.
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