Acclaimed artist, Ishknits, helps students yarn bomb school's courtyard
WINSLOW TWP. -- Winslow Township School No. 1 greeted spring with an artistic ring through two events that spruced up the inside and outside of the school.
Jessie Hemmons, also known as Ishknits, an acclaimed artist living in Philadelphia, visited to help the students yarn bomb the school's courtyard, as well as to teach them about altering every day objects and making them into art, earlier this school year.
"It was amazing to have such a talented and successful artist collaborate with my students. The visit helped open their eyes to the ability of art to transform spaces, communities, and the world," said Caitlin Black, art teacher at School No. 1. "Ishknits provided a hands-on educational opportunity for my students to recognize not only the power of art, but also the importance of working together to make the world a more beautiful place."
Prior to her visit, students in the Art & Design Club sent Ishknits photos of the courtyard, and together, they worked to create a plan to beautify the environment with yarn. Then, Ishknits executed the plan along with club members and second-graders.
Noah Wilkins, center, is proud of his work yarnbombing the courtyard of Winslow School No. 1 with the help of Ishknits (Jessie Hemmons), third from right. "I thought beautifying the courtyard could be a fun project to do in a short amount of time, and I think it was a good experience all around," said Ishknits. "The kids got to see art in a weird place, which was the gist of it. They thought outside the box..."
"Words cannot adequately express the gratitude we have at School No. 1 for Ishknits' kindness and generosity," said Black, who noted that Ishknits volunteered for the project, which should last a few months. In turn, Ishknits thanked the students and the school for working with her on her first elementary school project.
Just days later, 300 people attended the Second Annual School No. 1 Art Show, which highlighted at least one work from every student in the school in a gallery-like setting. All artwork featured the interdisciplinary nature of the arts, with connections to Common Core Standards.
The Winslow Township Education Association provided refreshments and randomly drawn prizes for students who attended.
This item submitted by the Winslow Township School District.