Congratulations 2019 Graduates!

We had a lovely celebration last week in honor of our 2019 graduates!

2nd graders in April 2016

5th graders in April 2019!

We began by asking students to reflect on their experiences with the GROW program. 

How have your feelings about sculptures changed over the past four years?

- I learned that sculptures are not just made of clay. It/sculptures change the way I look at things and not everything is made the same.
- Sculptures changed me because it makes me feel I can make anything. I learned that anything can be art.

- I've learned that sculptures can have many different meanings and can tell a story.

- My feelings have changed very much, now I realize how much thought and work goes into them. I've learned that sculptures can be basically anything and they can be something only you understand.

- My feelings changed a lot toward art and I got more interested in sculptures and the idea of them.

How did your GROW journey change your feelings about going to a museum?

- In 2nd grade I really didn't want to go to any museum unless it was the Perot Museum, but now I love it. Now I want to explore more art and art museums.

- My journey is that I now love art and have a passion about it. When I go to an art museum, I would like to draw artwork now.

- It made me want to go visit other art museums and explore different art cultures in museums.

- Before I just thought you go to look at basic artworks, but now I know that it's not just about looking at it, you actually dig deep into the artwork.

- Before GROW I wanted to go often but now I want to go every day of the week and look at different art.

What would you tell someone who is just starting the GROW program?

- I'd tell them don't be afraid to comment or ask a question about something.

- I would say "If you love art be ready to have the time of your life" or "Be read to grow and have your mind blown."

- I think when you go to each field trip you should be ready to be amazed. Also you should get ready to have so much fun.

- I will tell them how fun it is and you will learn more and more about art.

- I'd tell them that their opinion on art might change and that they'll get to do many fun activities while looking at art.

Students also repeated the audition that they submitted to enter the program as second-graders, which provides insight as to their progress over the past four years.

  

Next, students received their GROW certificates and graduation caps.

And finally...pizza and Ms. Lawson's super delicious cake!!

For me, GROW graduation brings a mixture of feelings. I feel such joy and pride for these young art enthusiasts. I'll miss their positive energy, silliness, and super smart insights. This group has developed into curious and confident museum-goes, and I can't wait to see where their individual journeys take them!

There are multiple GROW generations here: 2019 graduate Leslie in the front right and her older sister Alondra, 2017 graduate sits next to her. In Alondra's lap is their younger sister...perhaps a future GROW graduate?