Redwood Room (Caitlin and Wendy's Lower Elementary Class)

"There must be provision for the child to have contact with nature; to understand and appreciate the order, the harmony and the beauty in nature… so that the child may better understand and participate in the marvelous things which civilisation creates." Maria Montessori

California, Where We Live
Poppies
Mt. Tam
Golden Gate Bridge
The California Redwood
Acrylics on canvas board
Mount: Mahogany backing with mahogany edging
Size: 43"x43"

A unique piece of art which is a compilation of each child's painting. Also included are two pieces that were collaborative efforts of the third year students. The efforts began with mixing of paints to create a color palette for the entire work, which is comprised of three different California images that are icons of the beautiful north bay in which we live. These images are anchored around a singular representation of another piece of nature- a majestic redwood tree; the resulting artwork reveals the familiarity with and connection to the subjects that the children feel. The Redwood students were diligent in their work, each with a personal approach; some sketched on paper as practice, some went directly brush to canvas and some elements were practiced stylistically with paint on paper. The energy and excitement of the kids was not limited to their own work- they were so eager to see the progress of each other's creations and, ultimately, the final formation of blended art. This Redwood class project is presented with true pride; the children have ownership of their work and are elated with their contribution to the collective piece of art.