CAPE GIRARDEAU Mo. (KBSI) – Second graders at Jefferson Elementary School will be teaming up with local organizations for a special project in light of the eclipse in April.
With the help of Southside Farms, Southeast Arts Council, and an out of state artist, the children will be creating ceramic tiles that will go on a bench that will be placed at Southside Farms as a permanent work of art.
Jenny Bittner, who is the art teacher at Jefferson, says, “The big reveal and our big party is going to be on the eclipse day which is April 8. So were going to be able to go over there for our celebration with Southside Farms they’re creating for the eclipse and we’ll be able to see our bench when we go there.”
To kickstart the project, two artists visited the school on February 12, to spark inspiration.
Henry Dean, who is one of the artists and guest speakers, says the two benches will be located at the Mae Green Community Center along with an installation he created called, “Now and Then”
“So that anybody can come and enjoy the sculpture and think about nature and community and rally trying to promote this idea of working together, being positive, experiencing joy and wonder and nature.” Dean said.
The educators believe the biggest takeaway is that it’s important for the children to be a part of their community and see their artwork outside of the classroom.
