Garden City Middle School sixth grade students recently delved into the world of art with a hands-on workshop led by professional artist, sculptor and potter, Mr. Cliff Mendelson. From May 17-21, students had the unique opportunity to explore various artistic techniques and cultures under Mendelson's guidance.
Sponsored by the Garden City PTA and supported by middle school art teachers Mrs. Biondi and Mr. Wilkonski, as well as Middle School Principal Matthew Samuelson, and Coordinator of Music and the Arts, Amanda Hauser, the Artist-in-Residence workshop aimed to empower students with knowledge about art creation and its cultural significance. During the workshop, Mendelson, a clinician specializing in historical pottery building techniques, led students through the process of creating their own clay pieces using traditional Native American techniques. Students were encouraged to incorporate traditional Native American symbols, patterns, and imagery into their work, fostering a deeper appreciation for indigenous cultures and their artistic contributions.
The workshop provided students with a firsthand experience of witnessing an artist at work, sparking their curiosity and creativity. Through discussions on the history of art in various cultures, students gained insight into the continued relevance of artistic expression in today's world.
"We are grateful to the Garden City PTA and PTA for Arts in Education for their support in bringing this meaningful and hands-on experience to our sixth grade students," Hauser said. "The Artist-in-Residence workshop not only enriched our students' understanding of art but also instilled in them a deeper appreciation for the skill and creativity involved in the artistic process."
