Theo Bates stands near the ‘Bridge at Giverny.’ Haldane artists in grades K–5, with the assistance of some 6th graders, created amazing works of art to celebrate Impressionism for the Garrison Art Center School Invitational Theme Exhibition, Lasting Impressions and Good Vibrations.

The children worked on numerous individual artworks as well as the collaborative pieces that were displayed at the show. They viewed DVDs, read books, and explored many posters about Impressionism to prepare for the creation of the artwork.

The highlight of the Haldane work was a large wooden bridge styled after Monet’s Bridge at Giverny. Monet and Linnea from the book Linnea in Monet’s Garden proudly pose on the bridge that was designed by 5th and 6th grade students. Grade 4 artists used a pulled paint technique to create Hudson River scenes. They also constructed a small ballerina sculpture after viewing the work of Degas, as well as a sailboat sculpture based on Monet’s art.

Third graders worked on Impressionistic Hudson River scenes using mono-prints.

Second grade artists sponge-printed a basket of fruit in homage to Cezanne’s work. Artists in grade 1 used small cut circles of crayons to make a pointillist sailboat on the river. Kindergarten artists made hand-print water lilies in tribute to Monet.

Jean Cendali, Haldane Art Teacher, was delighted by the enthusiasm that the children showed for the theme.

The collaborative projects were made possible through a grant from the Haldane School Foundation.

Also, many thanks go to Gary VanAsselt, Haldane maintenance worker, who cut the wood and constructed the artwork.