Begin Vernal Pool Inspired Collages

Renee Covalucci

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Last week, while we were shoveling snow, Renee Covalucci was down in Atlanta, Georgia for a printmaking conference. Renee is president of the board of directors for The Boston Printmakers, an International Association of Artists. She returned to us today to offer tips on mixing natural colors, organizing visual compositions, using photographic reference material, and collaging. Each student chose an animal or critter that lives in local vernal pool habitats. We observed the colors and shapes of American Toads, Wood Frogs, Spring Peepers, Damselflies, Dragonflies, and Snakes. The studio was full of color and focused attention as students carefully cut and constructed their first works of art. In May, their works will be exhibited at The Umbrella in a show titled, "Where am I, When am I: Spring's Arrival at a Vernal Pool". We will soon be working with The Umbrella's educational director Jason Springer to think about how to prepare for the exhibition. This will be Jason's fifth year supporting Rivers and Revolutions students in their efforts to bring their artwork and learning into their gallery. This experience of creating art and preparing a professional quality exhibition is sure to be both challenging and rewarding for all of us.