Another February Art Advocacy Fab Five!

Long winter days need some special events built in to move them along.  These ideas lend themselves perfectly to classroom curriculum, build the concept of teamwork and planning, and can become great advocacy PR pieces for the local newspaper.  The old saying "You have to be a hero in your community first" is so true in art advocacy!

1
Does Valentine's Day excitement have you feeling blue rather than red?  Create a school-wide UNITY event based on the work of Jim Dine and his Hearts series in multiple media for K-5. Tie it in with PE, as many schools celebrate Heart Month with different event challenges.  Dovetail with classroom teachers talking about the need for good nutrition and organize a healthy snack day for all.  Need ideas?  Check out Pinterest under Jim Dine for exciting lessons. 

2
Hungry for more?  Older students (grades 6-12) can do the Empty Bowls project and join forces with community food banks in raising money.  Tie in a nutrition study with Family and Consumer Science classes and have local grocery stores donate dried soup ingredients to package up in Ziploc bags to be auctioned off with blows (if you cannot do the actual meal event).

3
Partner with a neighboring school district and set up a traveling art show - 5-6 pieces that move from school to school.  Great way to collaborate for the arts, and showcase not only YOUR students, but those in the area.

4
Using the food theme combined with a study of Andy Warhol, do a community service canned food soup drive.  Use Andy's 'Soup Can' series and theme of "You CAN make a difference", plus a sculptural installation of the donations (in a safe area, of course) and recognition for those who contribute, and help stock up the local food pantry at a time of the year when things may be scarce.  Involve your Art Club, Honor Society, Student Council, or K-Kids (Kiwanis organization for younger students).

5
Budget time, for many, is getting close.  Schedule a time slot at the next Board of Education meeting and share with them the interdisciplinary value of art, and how you are preparing students with 21st century skills.  Bring students along with examples of their work, and invite all of your parents who support the program!