The project began October 12, 2005 with a group of excited Traveler’s Aid Homeless Shelter students and BuildaBridge Teaching Artists, Kathryn Pannepacker and David Lauria. During this particular project, students were introduced to and learned the characteristics of “pattern,” utilized their creativity to design a pattern of their very own, and then traced and painted the pattern on a section of the wall. Even parents could not resist the lure of painting. A parent by the name of Anthony, in particular, spent hours of time outside of class refining the patterns and rendering beautiful background colors.This artistic journey was not without struggles. Mid-way through the project, rumors and controversy began to brew. One pattern in particular struck a chord with the residents. Kristi had taken her first initial “K” and as instructed repeated it to create a pattern. Although it was not intended, the pattern began to read as “KKK.” The fact that Kristi was the only Caucasian participant only complicated the already tense appearances. Under the weight of the accusations she, with the advocacy of her parents, was ready to leave the project. Burdened by the prospects, Kathryn came in extra early the next class and sat down with Kristi and her parents. Capitalizing on the current situation, Kathyrn discussed the power of symbols and how the meaning of symbols can be changed or interpreted differently. Kathryn discussed historical examples of the swastika and the pink triangle. Kristi was learning important lessons about history, art concepts involving audience and interpretation, and social/racial reconciliation! The four goal areas (academic, social, character, and artistic skill) of BuildaBridge programming were touched on in one setting. By the end of the discussion Kristi was not only “ok”, but was excited to transform her work by staying true to her intended pattern while being sensitive to her audience; a very mature understanding. With that reconciled, her parents became active supporters and Kristi finished her “K” pattern. Kristi then went above and beyond by initiating an additional pattern project: She coordinated a dozen or so of the children (too young to paint their own design) and had them place their handprints on the wall. A potential obstacle became a challenge to work through rather than barricade to stop her. The above is an example of the teachable moments that have presented themselves to our Teaching Artists since the beginning of our Discovery program. In believing in the transformative power of the Arts, specifically the process of Art-making, moments like these only enhance the work we strive do with children.
