Art Class. The place where creativity flows like the Nile. Art is often used as a way to express oneself and/or reach others. One way art reaches others here in the community is through the Monster Project. The Monster Project is an assignment where second grade students create a custom character and send their design to High School art students who then sculpt them out of clay and return them to their makers
Art Teacher and Project Advisor Lauryn Perrigo said “This project is one of the favorites of the high schoolers.”. Children are some of the most imaginative types of people. Not only allowing but encouraging them to tap into their creative side is amazing. Being able to support that innovation on a larger scale is truly a gift.
Another aspect of this activity is the compassion within the collaboration. “Making something for an elementary student definitely makes them work a lot harder,” said Perrigo. When working with the younger kids, it’s important that you treat the creations with care. They’re counting on you to bring their artwork to life.
Freshman art student Brooklynn Arreola has been on both sides of the project. “It’s fun,” said Arreola. Her favorite part was “seeing their faces and how excited they were.”. That’s ultimately the whole point of this operation.
Second grade student Piper Torrey was on the other side of the partnership. “I thought it was really cool when I saw it and I got really excited,” said Torrey. “My favorite part is drawing it and then seeing it with clay.” The joy this project brings is unmatched.
All in all, the Monster Project is a beautiful activity. The alliance between two entirely different groups of students is an unusual sight in the education department. There’s no doubt that this project holds a special place in everyone’s heart.