Tuesday, May. 19, 2009

Ocean Bay Art Show

Students, parents raise funds for art

Ocean Bay Elementary's first art show gave visitors a chance to see the results of students' hard work through hundreds of pieces on display with at least one from each child.

Proceeds from the sales of student art pieces as well as raffles and the auction of classy art all raised funds for the art department.

In previous years the classy art pieces have been auctioned at the school's Spring Fling, but this year, the pieces, which are created by each classroom as a cooperative project, were a part of the new art show that may become an annual event.

The artworks at the May 7 event ranged from planters decorated with children's painted handprints as flowers, to an elaborate tea pitcher and glass set.

The biggest hit of the evening was a recycling bin created by Mrs. Bane's 1st grade class. The bin was the highest seller for the evening earning $115. Loretta Coulter, PTO president, purchased the bin as a gift for the school where it is now being used in an art classroom. In all there were 22 pieces of classy art, which together brought in a total of $1,039.

Students art pieces were for sale for $5 and $10 depending on the size of each piece. The children in attendance were very quick and proud to point out their own pieces, as well as favorites by classmates.

Refreshments were free with tips accepted and donated to the art department. There were also raffles throughout the event featuring various arts and craft projects which kept the kids interested until the last ticket was drawn.

The art department benefited from $733.73 from refreshment donations, student art sales and raffles.

"The show was a great success," said art teacher Jennifer Paitsel. "It was a lot of work, but the students really enjoyed it and the art department has also benefited."

Judging from the attendance and the enthusiasm of the evening, the show was indeed a great success.

Kelly Renee Fentress lives in The Farm and her daughter attends Ocean Bay Elementary School. You can share news about your schools by e-mailing ycf@thesunnews.com.