Artwork that decorated the Garrison Alternative School cafeteria wall Monday as part of the school’s first Garrison Staff and Student Art Show created its own picture — one of determination.
Students and staff were asked to create pieces for display and about 20 students submitted their artwork, paraprofessional Chelsea Watkins said.
The students didn’t know what was going to be done with their artwork and were surprised Monday morning with a display of their works and an art reception.
The pieces range from portraits of people to action figures to cars and were from children ages 10 to 18 years old.
“These students took it upon themselves to go out and find what (supplies) they needed,” Watkins said, adding that the school had no art supplies to offer them. “I’m so impressed with what they came up with and I’d love for this time next fall to have more supplies for them to do more things.”
Watkins said she got the idea for an art show after a poetry recital last month for which students were asked to write and recite a personal poem.
“I noticed that a lot of students didn’t write poems because they didn’t want to get up and read them in front of people,” Watkins said. “Here, they can do art and express themselves.”
Garrison Principal Rhonda Massey said she was glad students participated.
“This gives them an outlet to get their emotions out,” Massey said. “Our students don’t have art or any of those extras like students in other districts to help them release negative emotions.”
And it gives the students a chance to showcase their artwork, Massey said.
“It’s a good way for us to recognize them and it’s good for their self-esteem,” Massey said.
Watkins said she hopes to bring back the art show next year while increasing student and staff participation.
In the meantime, she’s hoping to start an art club that would meet at least once a month and provide students with a positive outlet.
“Art can be calming and helps get anger and frustration out and prevents it from interferring with anything else,” Watkins said.
