Thirty students in grades 5th-7th from Windham-Ashland-Jewett Central School took a field trip to the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA. Made possible by funding from the Windham Foundation, students were given an opportunity to view the works of the American illustrator first hand. Students were able to experience Rockwell’s art, life and legacy in the artist’s culturally rich New England hometown. Dan Yolen, the middle and high school art teacher, along with Sharon Quinn, the K-6 art teacher, organized the trip. Students analyzed and respond to various works of art. They learned about Rockwell’s early life and his passion for drawing. Norman Rockwell painted people and their experiences. “Without thinking too much about it in specific terms, I was showing the America I knew and observed to others who might not have noticed” –Norman Rockwell. This was a great opportunity for the students to view the many contributions of one of America’s leading artists. Through the artist’s brush, students learned that the American Dream is obtainable through hard work and determination. Students returned to their home and classroom, inspired.
One of the Windham Foundation’s goals is to encourage students to have dreams and goals. By funding programs like these, students can explore another time, another life, and other points of view. It is important to support the success of these young students in the community of Windham. This was the second art tour funded by the Windham Foundation. Last year, students visited Frederick Church’s home at Olana and learned about the Hudson River School of Art. The Windham Foundation is a 501c3, not for profit, www.windhamfoundation.com.