Week #3, Woolwich 8th Graders

The last week of 2018's FLOW trips was another success, despite the weather's lack of cooperation. It rained every day but one, and the temperature didn't rise much above 50º. But you know what? The kids not only endured it, but actually thrived. I've always said that the trips with the worst weather make for some of the best memories. After dealing with days of rain, one has a deep appreciation for the sun once it comes out.

Ms. Devin and Ms. Johnson, the art teachers at Woolwich Central School and Bath Middle School respectively, made sure they taught similar lessons on landscape painting during FLOW this year. Ms. Johnson developed the plein air art curriculum for the 2017 trips for BMS, and was eager to help get Woolwich kids on the same program. While out on Beale Island, students learn about foreground, middle ground, background, horizon line and atmospheric perspective. Once back at school, the work continues as students spend weeks revising and improving their paintings until they are ready to be displayed. This year the student artwork will be hung in the community room at the Patten Free Library with an opening set for Thursday, December 6th.

It's great to see the excitement in the kids' faces when they see their art teacher waiting for them on the island, two or three days into their wilderness experience. I think the feelings generated by seeing a familiar face along with a new appreciation for the beauty of this place inspires the kids to produce authentic, high quality art.

Look for more information soon about the art opening on December 6th. It promises to be a great night.