Great Works of Art: A Proud Willow Tradition

Willow Elementary School kindergartners are painting prehistoric-inspired artwork using berry juice and building caves using refrigerator boxes.

It is all part of Great Works of Art, a parent-run program that teaches students K-5 about great artists and great artworks, previously helmed by second-grade teacher Mindy Dowds.

"I was profoundly aware that so many children have little-to-no background in the arts. Many haven't even been to a museum," said Dowds, who took over the program in 1986, when only fourth and fifth grades participated. "One of the teachers asked me to develop a progression of lessons for grades K-3 that could get the children excited about art and the great artists."

Initially, the program was presented only as crayons and pencil projects. Dowds introduced artists who were known for a variety of mediums.  

"We brought in artists who worked with watercolors, clay, fabric or plaster, so that the children could get a feeling for different styles and textures," she said.

Each year, Willow's Parent Faculty Association sets aside funding for the program that provides for a fully-stocked supply closet, as well as a small stipend for each classroom. Should the docents have any out-of-pocket expenses, they are reimbursed at the end of the school year.

Caryn Chevalier has been a parent volunteer or docent for the past nine years, beginning when her oldest son entered kindergarten. 

"I remember when I first started doing this. I was terrified. After all, I don't consider myself an artist, but I remember thinking that if I can genuinely get the kids excited and interested in art, then this is something I have to do," she said. 

Chevalier does more than just talk about the artists; she says she likes to immerse the children in the educational experience. One of her more noteworthy projects involved a kindergarten lesson about the famous Lascaux cave paintings in France. 

"We built a cave using refrigerator boxes. We then covered the exterior with crinkled newspaper and paper mache to create the lumpy, bumpy texture of a cave. We completed the illusion using tempera paint," she explained. 

To illustrate the life of a cave artist, Chevalier established various stations for the children to walk through. "I wanted the kids to understand that prehistoric people used their art to talk about their hunting adventures," she said.

One station involved the kids painting with fresh berry juice as a medium. Students also made their own spears using sticks covered with fabric, dipped in red paint. The lesson culminated with a visit from a "cave man."

"I love it when kids that I've taught come up to me and tell me that I've positively influenced them in some way," Chevalier said. "My own son is now studying art, because of a lesson I taught on Van Gogh."

Julie Kaufman and Jennifer Hart have been co-chairing the program for the past two years. 

"This is such an important program for the kids," said Kaufman. "It enables them to freely express themselves and think outside the box all while learning something important."

"I love working with the kids," added Hart. "They are so excited each time we come into the classroom. They know they will be doing something fun."

Willow principal Dr. Jessica Kiernan says she is amazed at the dedication of the people who keep the program going. 

"We really value this program, and so many wonderful parents have volunteered their time, energy and talents," said Kiernan of the 25 parents who volunteer each year. "I am so proud that Willow has continued such a wonderful legacy."