Projectivity returned to PS44 for our 5th year working with students to paint the back courtyard, which doubles as a community park. The theme of this mural is the schools auditorium and the different, amazing events that take place within there. The students involved were 4th and 5th graders who were recommended by their teachers because of their interest in art. We spent the first 3 classes brainstorming with the students, encouraging them to draw down all of their ideas. We help-started their imaginations by having fun conversations about their favorite events that take place in this wonderful school. The students personalities really started to emerge when they put pencil to paper, and the work they did in class leant to some excellent elements of the mural. During the painting sessions, the students had fun laughing and painting together. Overall, it was a great learning experience and a reminder to the students to find purpose in their goals, to use their imaginations, and take pride in working with others to finish a common goal.
This project is sponsored by the Dept. of Cultural Affairs through a CASA grant from Councilmember Kamillah Hanks. Thank you to the councilmember, Principal Storms, and afterschool student coordinator Annette Bellman.
