World tour documented through art

Students at Peeples Elementary School took a trip around the world to some of the most exotic places on earth this year, experiencing different cultures, languages, people, histories and religions.

Memories of the their experiences can be seen on the walls throughout the school in the form of artwork that they created as they took their whirlwind trip with the guidance of art teacher Lucy Wicker.

Toward the end of every school year, Wicker transforms the walls of Peeples Elementary into an art gallery featuring the artwork of every student in the school. The art reflects the subject that the students have been studying throughout the year. This year's theme was Art Around the World.

Students in all grade levels spent time studying countries such as India, Africa, Indonesia, New Zealand, Asia and those that make up the Caribbean and Middle East to name a few. As they studied the countries, they learned about the way of life, traditional clothing worn by locals and the different types of celebrations hosted by a particular country.

While visiting the Caribbean, students learned about the yearly festival that celebrates the history of the Caribbean people. Dominant items found at the festival are Pitchy Patchy puppets and maracas. Using brown lunch bags, pieces of material and papiermache, students constructed replicas of the puppets and maracas that are now on display throughout the school.

On a visit to Botswana, Africa, fifth-grade students learned about the difficult art of weaving and coiling. Botswana is famous for its coiled coasters, so while studying the history of coiling students tried their hand at the craft.

"This is very difficult to do," says Wicker. "I can't believe how well they caught on. Some students finished so quickly that they were able to create some coiled bowls to go with the coasters."

Although many people may not realize it, art incorporates all academic disciplines. Wicker says this is why she puts together the art gallery every year. Students not only learn about different art mediums and forms, but they are also exposed to social studies, writing, mathematics and science.

Accompanying every piece of artwork are narratives that students have written about different facts surrounding a particular country and the reason behind its people and culture. While constructing artwork, students draw from their math skills to measure lengths and science skills to mix colors.

"I feel it's important to do this display each year not to only to showcase every child's artwork, but also to provide a teaching tool for parents, teachers and visitors who enter the school," Wicker explains. "Art is an important part of learning and it helps students further develop their skills in other disciplines."

Wicker says art helps develop skills such as higher order thinking, creativity and problem solving. It also incorporates important life skills such as sharing, cooperation, organization and teamwork.

"I was not exposed to art academically until I started college. If I had started learning art at an earlier age, I believe I would be at a higher level now and more developed as well as a better artist."

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