This year, 6th grade along with 4th, 5th, and 8th grades had the privilege to participate in the A.R.T.ist (Art Resources in Teaching) program offered by the Chicago Art Institute. It was an honor to be part of this program, as only 6 schools from Chicago were chosen! Students were introduced to various pieces of American art and taught how to critique them. Students were also privileged to receive a guided tour at the Art Institute to view the art work we discussed. Mr. William Estrada was our visiting artist who led the students on their journey through various lessons and hands-on projects. Under Mr. E's tutelage, each child was able to create a retablo depicting an important part of their life. As part of this program, the teachers from St. Sylvester also had to introduce a theme and an American piece of art that depicted this theme. They then had their students critique it, and create an original piece of art reflecting this theme. The theme explored was Personal Journeys. In the 6th grade, students studied the work of Chicago artist, Ivan Albright, focusing on his oil on canvas painting entitled Picture of Dorian Gray. They then created their own portraits and symbols in pop-out form. Much was learned by all who participated in this wonderful and unique opportunity!
