Halifax elementary students host Maud Lewis-inspired art gallery

More than a hundred Halifax elementary students put their creativity to the test.

Dozens of students at William King Elementary School in Halifax put their creative skills to the test for a Maud Lewis-inspired art gallery on Friday.

“I am so proud of how hard they worked and persevered,” says art teacher Heather Allen.

Students in Grades 3-to-5 showcased their unique pieces, all inspired by Nova Scotia artist Maud Lewis.

“They either recreated one of her paintings to pay tribute to her, or combine different things that they saw in her paintings, or they could do that and add things from their own life that they see around in Nova Scotia,” says Allen.

Third-grader Declan Brown put his own twist on Maud’s paintings and painted his dog Toby.

“I just got him like a couple weeks ago when I started painting this and I really loved him,” says Brown.

Many students opted to keep nature and animals a focal point in their creations.

“I was inspired by Maud Lewis because I saw one of her paintings that had flowers and skies and birds and stuff,” says student Czindhy Bellescodera. “And I decided to mix some of mine and hers into my paintings.”

Andrea Robin says her love for cats inspired her piece.

“There’s three big cats. One is kind of big and then medium and then a small and I added some flowers,” says Robin.

Teachers say more than 120 students helped create a giant Maud Lewis house.

Allen says art is a great way for students to challenge themselves and learn life skills.

“I think it gives them a place to show themselves and express who they are and have a voice to show who they are. And to get those life skills like perseverance and creativity, innovation, problem-solving all comes through when we’re learning,” says Allen.

The art gallery will stay open until next week for family and community members.

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