Artworks created by talented students participating in Dr. Lena Edwards Academic Charter School’s fine arts program was displayed during its Annual Music and Art show. The Fusion of Art and Science showcased student works inspired by famous artists such as Wassily Kandinsky, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Sir Jacob Lawrence, and Jackson Pollack just to name a few.
The dual themed showcase also made use of sustainable art, casting a wide net to unfold the solar system suspended in air. Water bottles twisted into shapes of planets provided a dynamic opportunity for visitors to understand magnetic forces and motions that define them. Lunchboxes made from cardboard served as a canvas for student creations of superheroes. Finally, a room of travel showcased effigies of the United States and children books of mythology that defined creation in time.
During an interview with DLEACS’ fine arts teacher, Irit Malinksy, and Science laboratory teacher, David Cooper who helped to collaborate on the show, they were asked why two large, large impressive images of Superman and Wonder Woman hung from the ceiling in the center of the gallery. Mr. Cooper replied, “Heroes are ordinary people who do extraordinary things.” Ms. Malinksy added, she wanted her students to know that anyone -- large or small, rich or poor, male or female, can be a superhero -- if you have the drive to rise above your circumstances.
Just when you thought the depth of student talent had reached its peak, students ushered attendees from the gallery to a culminating evening concert. Under the direction of Mr. Richard Polatchek, DLEACS’ music ensembles serenaded an audience of parents and friends with tunes from a multitude of genres.
Students from all grades performed, including the K-4 General Music Classes, the Middle School Glee Club, the Fifth Grade Band, and the Middle School Band. Highlights of the concert included the Middle School Band's selection of music from Disney's "The Jungle Book," the Glee Club's rendition of "I'll Be There" a la the Jackson 5, and always a crowd favorite, the Kindergarteners' performance of "Mr. Sun."
In its third year of existence, the music program at DLEACS continues to flourish under the direction of music teacher Richard Polatchek. Mr. P., as he is known to his students, says, "There is nothing more rewarding than the smiles and the sense of accomplishment on my students' faces after a successful concert."
Many thanks go to students who participated in the art exhibit and to those who performed in concert. A special note of gratitude is extended to Ms. Malinksy, Mr. Cooper and Mr. Polatchek for arranging a spectacular show.
The artworks, which range from paintings to sculptures, is on display at the Michael E. Maher Community Center and is available for viewing through June 25th by appointment.
See our photos here