The Pop Up Art Show

Engaged until the end!

I love to end the school year with a big community activity. It keeps students engaged until the end, lets them see the results of sustained collaboration and it's just fun. We spend the last month or so of my Studio class envisioning, planning and hosting a one day art event. It takes place during lunch so all students can easily participate.

We start planning by selecting a theme. I have students propose and present ideas to the class, then we vote. This year “Medieval Fantasy” was chosen. From there, each student submits artwork related to the theme and participates in planning and running an activity the day of the show.

My amazing students outdid themselves this year! We had students in incredible handmade costumes. We had student run henna, face painting, tarot card reading and fortune telling.

And the artwork! We had painting, sculpture, fiber arts and glass mosaic. My room faces the courtyard and has huge windows we painted like stained glass. We had a huge crowd, helped by perfect weather and the fact that we joined forces with another event.

The work for this show was mostly done by students. However, I supported them in a few important ways:

• I introduced the concept and showed them work from past shows.

• I shared diverse examples of medieval art, both historical and contemporary, to help spark ideas and make sure everyone could connect with the concept.

• I held students accountable and provided support by checking in with them everyday.

What a great way to end the year!