"Memories and Reflections"A couple of months ago, I was invited to work with 5th grade students at Oak Grove Elementary School in Santa Rosa to create an art piece that would be auctioned off at the school's Annual Gala Auction and Dinner / Dance Fundraiser I have to admit I was honored to be asked, and excited and nervous at the same time. 5th Graders! YIKES!
The school's Arts Program Director had seen my work by way of this blog and loved the idea of re-using materials that would normally be destined for the landfill. She wanted to hear my ideas on what project we could do with the 5th grade class, who would be graduating from elementary school to middle school soon. I thought the idea of making a 'memory mirror' would be perfect! We would ask the students to bring in 4-5 small 'silvery' things, from bells to bling . . . to use on the project.
She loved the idea, and we set a date for the art project. Soon I was off in search of the perfect mirror. The next weekend, I found it at the flea market. I made a list of items the students might want to bring, and I sent it in.
Next I prepared the mirror, by covering the frame in several layers of colored tissue. For the top layer, I used vintage sewing pattern tissue.
On the day of the project, the students were sent in in small groups with their 'silvery' things. After a brief discussion about the project, they each came up and told me where on the frame they wanted their item(s) placed, and I attached each item, using tiny nails, screws, wire or glue, as appropriate.
Next, the students were asked to sign their name on a piece of pattern tissue, which would later be put on the back side of the mirror, finishing the piece
The mirror is now finished. I am happy with the results. The whole experience was terrific! I will deliver it to the school next week, where it will be on display for parents and students to see until the day of the auction, which will be May 12th. I hope it brings in a bunch of money for the Arts Program! There is lots to see, these images do not do it justice. To see details you will need to enlarge the image.
