Tisbury School Honors Beloved Art Teacher

When Michael Ovios, art and industrial arts teacher at Tisbury School, passed away this past March, he left behind generations of students whose lives he touched. This Friday, June 17, the school hopes to give a time and place for all those who knew Ovios to remember him.

From 5:30 to 7 pm anyone who wishes to stop by the Tisbury School can do so. There is no formal ceremony or memorial taking place, just a gathering of folks who want to share and celebrate the life of a man who dedicated himself to teaching and to art.

Ovios, who taught at the school for over 35 years, taught industrial arts to fifth through eight grade students, and art to kindergarten through third grade students. He also frequently assisted with light and set design on theater productions.

According to the school's principal, Richard Smith, "the loss was felt greatly by the entire community, but in particular, the children and staff." And some of Ovios's students were children of previous students. "He touched lots of people," said Smith, "and we want to give them an opportunity to get together, to talk about him, share stories, and to celebrate his life."

As a scuptor, Ovios created many large pieces that are shown throughout the school. In addition to sharing stories and memories of Ovios on Friday, the school has put together a self-guided tour, so that visitors can walk through the hallways and enjoy his sculptures. They have also asked that people bring in piece of artwork that they or their children created in his classroom to be displayed among many others in the gym and halls.

There will be hot dogs and burgers on the grill and folks can bring a dish or desert if they want. According to Smith, this is a come-and-go-as-you-please event. There are sure to be good stories, memories, food and art in honor of this beloved teacher who, according to Smith, "loved eating, loved art and loved children."