Jackson Elementary receives Acorn Grant to create Art Gallery at school

JACKSON TWP. | Jackson Elementary recently hosted an opening of the new Jackson Art Gallery at the school. The gallery was made possible through a grant from the Duneland Education Foundation.

The purpose of the grant was to showcase original works of art in the media center at the school to strengthen self-esteem and enhance the aesthetic quality of the library environment. "I wanted to create the "gallery" setting so that students would gain an appreciation for the talents of their fellow students and view each other as "artists," said Media Specialist Linda Eleftheri. "This grant allowed us to purchase frames for the artwork so that it could be properly displayed."

The gallery not only improves the looks of the media center, it supports the Jackson mission statement and helps students gain pride and a sense of ownership for their school environment by contributing a selection of artwork. Jackson students were involved in creating original works of art for the gallery. Art teacher Susan Calkusic assisted with the creation and selection of the artwork. Artwork will be rotated periodically with new student artwork. Students in the upper grades will also be involved in assisting with the framing and display process throughout the year. "We hope that exhibiting student talent will encourage students to enjoy art in their community during their lifetime," said Eleftheri.