In Ms. E’s first grade classroom, creativity and hands-on exploration are part of everyday life. This quarter, students took on a special multi-phase project: designing and building their own imaginary animals using reused and recycled materials. They began by brainstorming, then sculpted with clay, and then—guided by Ms. E and classroom volunteers—brought their creatures to life. They even wrote artist statements to explain their creations. The project concluded with a gallery walk, where guests (teachers and classmates) could admire the students’ work and read their reflections. The pride and imagination on display were a beautiful reminder of the magic that happens when young minds are given the encouragement to bring their ideas to life.
SOPHIA
2025
by Graezlyn “Gigi” C.
Materials Used: PVC pipe, fabric, wood, paint sticks, shell, gears from a clock, cotton, hot glue, screw, sewing needles, sandpaper, drill
Artist Statement: “I wanted to make something fancy. I like fancy things and I like pink. I really liked putting the cotton inside the body to make it fat.”
STRIPER
2025
by Khaloni Milan H.
Materials Used: Buttons, metal, cake plate, rope, twist ties, felt, pipe cleaners, hot glue
Artist Statement: “I wanted to make a butterfly because I knew I was going to miss the ones that grew up in our classroom.”
