Art has the unique ability to bridge cultural divides, and foster understanding and empathy among students from different backgrounds. Through art, students can explore diverse cultural traditions and historical contexts. Artistic expression often becomes a powerful catalyst for social change, enabling students to sympathize and understand different cultures in a new context.
The 5th graders at Juniper School did an art project based on the art of Esther Mahlangu, a south African artist. They learned about her culture and the tradition of the women in the villages passing the knowledge of painting onto the younger generations. One of the experiences that the students enjoyed was painting with a feather, as Esther does. They were surprised to learn how difficult it was! The students came to understand the many challenges that Esther and her people face and have overcome. This experience gave many of the students a new found appreciation for the modern conveniences of our nation. But also an awareness of the cultural differences, and how so few of our families have traditions passed from generation to generation.
